No lost generation: refugee children education in Cyprus

Education is a right for every child and a critical opportunity. For refugee children and adolescents, it holds the key to a life with less poverty, better health and an increased ability to take the future into their own hands. This research paper aims to investigate the current situation in Cyprus in regard to the integration of refugee children in the educational system and suggest strategies and policies that will have an impact on the educational chances of these children. It combines data from desk research, interviews with key actors and educators, as well as interviews with refugee children and parents. Findings address the main barriers to integration in the educational system for refugee children and provide the background for recommendations to be made that will increase the educational success of these children

The road less traveled and beyond: Working with severe trauma and preventing burnout

Working with severe trauma in the clinical field predisposes the clinician to the possible vulnerabilities caused by burnout. Clinicians working in this field, may feel overwhelmed, become symptomatic, and experience disruptions in their professional and personal relationships due to burnout. These reactions can be minimized and prevented if the clinician applies adaptive ways of coping with burnout. This paper offers practical advice on how to counteract burnout in professionals working in the helping professions, and specifically with survivors of severe traumatic experiences

Older Adults’ Perceptions of Psychotherapy in Cyprus

The purpose of the study was to explore older adults’ views and perceptions of psychotherapy in Cyprus. A total of 25 older adults, aged between 65–89, participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis identified three main themes: Familiar term/Unfamiliar process; existential crises during this stage; and the issue of stigma in psychotherapy. Participants indicated a basic understanding of what psychotherapy entails, but did not associate psychotherapy with serious mental illness. Participants identified a number of existential issues that are potentially major life stressors for an elderly person and referred to the historical stigma that has an impact on their own perceptions about psychotherapy. However, participants seemed to view their ability to overcome psychological difficulties on their own as a proof of personal strength. Psychologists and other health professionals also need to be mindful of how they describe psychological concepts and treatment, as older adults may not understand what they are being told or may be afraid of what treatment involves based on historical context. This study highlights the importance of using strategies that may have the potential to empower this population in order to proactively attend to their mental health, including community-based education and national mental health campaigns