16/12/2016 - With a rate of 14 cases per 100,000 people, the suicide rate in Thailand’s refugee camps is more than double the host country’s national average of six cases per 100,000. In response to this, IOM has organized a one-day mental health training workshop for medical professionals of partner organizations working in refugee camps.

Conducted at the IOM Processing Centre in Mae Sot by an IOM psychiatrist, the workshop focused on familiarising participants with key aspects of suicide mitigation including risk factors, detection and intervention. Emphasis has was also placed on prevention methods and promoting good mental health.

A total of 25 health professionals from seven partner organizations conducting activities in refugee camps, including UNHCR, the American Refugee Committee, Mae Tao Clinic and Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, participated in the workshop.

"Mental health issues such as suicide have to be adequately discussed and needs to be professionally presented and emphasised to healthcare staff from partner organization assisting beneficiaries in the camps," explained Dr. Dmitry Shapovalov, IOM Thailand’s Chief Medical Officer. “This workshop will help to equip camp based personnel with the necessary knowledge to better recognise symptoms and carry out appropriate response in addressing the issue with confidence.”

The workshop is one of several activities IOM implements in the area of health education targeting humanitarian staff and beneficiaries. IOM also conducts health assessments and provides medical treatment for refugees with illnesses.

Thailand currently hosts over 100,000 refugees from Myanmar in nine refugee camps along the Thai-Myanmar border. Difficult living conditions, restrictions on movements and uncertain future prospects are believed to have contributed to a rise in suicide cases in recent years. Between January and October 2016, 21 suicide deaths and a further 26 suicide attempts were recorded.

For further information please contact Dana Graber Ladek at IOM Thailand, Email: dgraber@iom.int, Tel: +66 2 343 9301.