The Psychological Impact Among Syrian Refugees in Host Countries

Background: Refugees face numerous challenges, including conflict, displacement, family separation, human rights violations, limited access to basic needs, and exposure to violence and torture. These experiences significantly impact their psychological well-being, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. Syrian refugees in Jordan may experience higher levels of depression and anxiety than those in Spain due to harsher living conditions, limited economic opportunities, uncertain legal status, inadequate mental health services, and ongoing proximity to the Syrian conflict, whereas refugees in Spain benefit from better integration, stronger support systems, and greater stability. Objective: This study aimed to assess and compare the psychological symptoms experienced by Syrian refugees in Jordan and Spain. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational design was employed to evaluate the psychological impact on Syrian refugees in both developed (Spain) and developing (Jordan) country. A sample of 200 refugees from camps, residences, and refugee centers was recruited. Psychological symptoms were measured using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Results: The majority of participants had low income, secondary education, and were unemployed. Overall, 55.5% reported stress, 63.5% anxiety, and 68.5% depression. Higher levels of stress and depression were observed among females, unemployed individuals, and low-income groups. Age also played a critical role, with individuals aged 40-49 reporting elevated stress, anxiety, and depression compared with other age groups. Discrimination and living arrangements further influenced mental health, with low-social-connectivity communities and rural areas associated with higher anxiety and depression. Higher levels of stress and depression were observed among females in Spain and significant mental health disparities across age and income groups in Jordan. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions addressing sociodemographic vulnerabilities to improve refugee mental health outcomes. Refugees in Jordan reported significantly higher levels of depression and anxiety compared with those in Spain. Conclusions: The findings highlight the profound psychological burden faced by Syrian refugees, particularly in Jordan, where living conditions and systemic challenges exacerbate mental health issues. Factors such as age, gender, marital status, low education, and low income were strongly associated with higher stress levels in both countries. These results underscore the need for targeted mental health interventions, improved access to psychological support, and policies that address the socioeconomic and legal challenges faced by refugees. Enhancing integration, reducing discrimination, and providing comprehensive mental health services are critical steps toward improving the well-being of this vulnerable population.