Life in the camps: An examination of mental health and life orientation of Palestinian refugees in the Occupied Palestinian Territories

Vida en los campamentos: Un examen de la salud mental y la orientación vital de los refugiados palestinos en los Territorios Palestinos Ocupados

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between mental health and life orientation among Palestinian refugees in the Occupied Territories, focusing on their psychological well-being and outlook on life. Method: A quantitative approach was employed, utilizing the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), the Life Orientation Test revised, and sociodemographic data collected from 125 refugees living in United Nations Relief and Works Agency facilities. Results: The findings revealed that 64.8% of participants experienced moderate to severe mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, while 58.9% exhibited a pessimistic life orientation, reflecting a lack of hope for the future. Additionally, 90.4% reported exposure to violence, highlighting the profound impact of conflict on their well-being. Income and age were identified as significant predictors of mental health outcomes. Conclusions: The study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to address mental health disparities, enhance resilience, and improve the quality of life for this vulnerable population.