Pharm.D., MSc., School of Global Health, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. Correspondence to:
Torture. 2024;34(2):52-63. doi: 10.7146/torture.v34i2.146559.
The integration of livelihood support with mental health and psycho-social support (MHPSS) seems crucial for the rehabilitation of torture survivors in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aimed to explore the intersec-tionality of poverty and mental health, and the integration of livelihood support with-in MHPSS frameworks related to the rehabilitation of torture survivors in LMICs.
A cross-sectional study was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire distributed to members of the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT) in LMICs (n=25). The questionnaire explored the perception of IRCT centres in LMIC countries regard-ing the extent to which poverty contributes to poor mental health outcomes among torture sur-vivors and the effectiveness of integrating livelihood support into MHPSS interventions.
The study highlighted the significant economic challenges faced by torture survivors, indicating a high prevalence of extreme poverty among this group. The study found that 92% of respondents believed that poverty and mental health outcomes of torture survivors are strongly linked. Eco-nomic and social inequalities were identified as key determinants of mental health, emphasizing the need to address these inequalities in rehabilitation programs for torture survivors.
The study underscores the critical connection between poverty, mental health, and the experience of torture. In the view of most IRCT centres, the integration of livelihood support with MHPSS is essential for addressing economic disparities and promoting long-term resilience among survivors. The results highlight the need to conduct long-term longitudinal studies that provide support to this perception. The study recommends enhancing coordination among stakeholders, addressing cultural and social barriers, securing sustainable funding, and developing strategies to integrate livelihood support with MHPSS for torture survivors. According to participants, rehabilitation programmes should include economic empowerment, mental health support, and social integration, to contribute to a holistic recovery, long-term resilience, and overall well-being.
生计支持与心理健康和心理社会支持（MHPSS）的整合对于中低收入国家（LMIC）的酷刑幸存者康复似乎至关重要。本研究旨在探讨贫困与心理健康的交叉性，以及生计支持在与 LMIC 中酷刑幸存者康复相关的 MHPSS 框架内的整合。
采用横断面研究，对来自中低收入国家国际酷刑受害者康复理事会（IRCT）的成员（n=25）使用半结构式问卷进行调查。该问卷探讨了 LMIC 国家的 IRCT 中心对以下问题的看法：贫困在多大程度上导致酷刑幸存者心理健康状况不佳，以及将生计支持纳入 MHPSS 干预措施的有效性。
研究强调了酷刑幸存者面临的重大经济挑战，表明这一群体中极端贫困的发生率很高。研究发现，92%的受访者认为贫困与酷刑幸存者的心理健康结果密切相关。经济和社会不平等被确定为心理健康的关键决定因素，强调在酷刑幸存者康复计划中需要解决这些不平等问题。
研究强调了贫困、心理健康和酷刑经历之间的关键联系。在大多数 IRCT 中心看来，将生计支持纳入 MHPSS 对于解决经济差距和促进幸存者的长期复原力至关重要。结果强调需要进行长期纵向研究，以支持这一观点。该研究建议加强利益相关者之间的协调，解决文化和社会障碍，确保可持续资金，并制定将生计支持与 MHPSS 相结合的战略，以帮助酷刑幸存者康复。根据参与者的说法，康复计划应包括经济赋权、心理健康支持和社会融合，以促进全面康复、长期复原力和整体幸福感。
