The Silence Surrounding Fear: A Cultural Challenge in Therapy
In many cultures, discussing fears and trauma remains a taboo. This issue is particularly vital for refugees fleeing conflict and seeking safety in new homes. Jamil Hassan, a Kurdish refugee from northern Syria, illustrates this struggle vividly. Arriving in Germany at just 18, he faced a life of uncertainty and trauma that many other refugees also experience.
Jamil’s Journey from Syria to Germany
Hassan’s migration journey was daunting. Fleeing Syria in 2015 with his family, he embarked on a perilous trek through the woods to reach Germany, opting for a land route he believed to be safer than the treacherous seas. This decision allowed him to escape immediate danger, but it didn’t eliminate the psychological scars from the journey.
Now 29 and living in Ulm, Hassan has achieved remarkable integration by learning German, completing vocational training, and converting to Christianity—a significant cultural shift that has cost him the support of some in his community. However, his journey does not end there; he still grapples with the lingering effects of trauma and stress related to his past experiences.
Understanding PTSD and Its Effects
Hassan now dedicates his time to helping other refugee children who are similarly afflicted by trauma. Working alongside therapists, he serves as a bridge for language and understanding, addressing a significant gap in resources for traumatized youth.
Many of these children enter therapy with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), manifesting through anxiety and perpetual vigilance. Christine Krug, a psychologist at Caritas Ulm-Alb-Donau, notes that as of 2025, a staggering number of children in her care have come bearing heavy psychological burdens. “Therapy is crucial for integration and better quality of life,” she asserts.
The Challenge of Accessing Therapy
Despite some improvements in psychological support since 2015, the overall need often outstrips the available resources. Therapy seats are limited, leading to extensive waiting lists, especially for refugees. Bruised by bureaucratic hurdles and language barriers, many find it extremely difficult to access the help they so desperately need. Hassan emphasizes that in their culture, discussing fears with others, particularly family, is often viewed negatively—one is labeled as “crazy” for expressing such vulnerabilities.
“In our culture, you don’t talk about fears, especially not with relatives,” he notes. “Others must encourage families to seek help. It’s not a shame; it’s vital for healing.” The stigma surrounding mental health in refugee communities can hinder the willingness to pursue therapy, further exacerbating the challenges they face.
Empowering Change and Seeking Support
Hassan’s ongoing participation in therapy sessions, despite never having sought therapy for himself, shows the far-reaching benefits of supportive environments. “I learned much about myself by attending these sessions,” he explains. Through his experience, he understands the profound impact of seeing children gradually overcome their trauma and regain a sense of hope.
In a world where mental health is often overlooked, especially for marginalized groups, Hassan’s story serves as a beacon of change. It emphasizes the need for cultural sensitivity in mental health discussions while advocating for greater access to therapeutic resources for refugees. By breaking the silence surrounding fear and trauma, we can foster healing in communities that have long suffered in silence.
