Evaluation and psychotherapy of Indochinese refugee patients

Based on clinical experience with 70 Indochinese refugees, specific approaches to diagnosis and treatment of these patients were developed. The psychiatrist/patient relationship was supported and improved by well-trained, empathetic interpreters who assisted with the evaluation which stressed thorough history-taking and a mental status exam. Cultural differences and the psychiatrist's attitudes about refugees and the Indochinese war influenced the therapeutic process. Treatment consisted of appropriate medication, involvement with the social agencies when necessary, and the warmth, empathy, and support of the physician. In particular, it was helpful to understand the symptoms as the patient perceived them and to relate them to possible stresses in the past. Problem areas of therapy were the patient's concentration on physical symptoms, the horror stories, and taboo subjects difficult for the refugee to discuss. Case histories point out the conflict of values and cultural attitudes about mental illness among refugees due to their changed environment and life style.