By: Allyson Szydlowski
(Ritsona refugee Camp, Greece) —
As of July 2017, refugees throughout Greek camps have been battling mental illnesses for over a year, many facing symptoms of depression or even suicide. With the rising concern of mental health, the question of aide becomes apparent. Psychologists are now working to tackle the rising suicide rates in camps. Continue reading Tackling rising suicide rates among refugees in Greece (audio)
By: Haley Argeros 7/26/17
(Athens, Greece)–Refugee camps all over Greece are implementing programs geared towards women while they await their fates in Europe. The women, from across several Middle Eastern nations know that the language and cultural practices of their new homes will be far different from what they know. Women’s programs for refugees across Greece are trying to address those concerns. The story of those efforts can be seen in the faces of those involved. Continue reading Female refugees prepare for a new life far from home
Jessa Vivio, 7/25/17
(Ritsona Refugee Camp, Greece) —
Organized football (soccer) at Greece’s refugee camps is now being offered as a means of escape from boredom and depression for residents who wait months or years for word on a future home.
At the Ritsona refugee camp on Greece’s mainland, the ‘Cafe Rits’ football team sponsored by the Cafe Rits NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) has turned semi-pro, with the refugee team sparing against other Greek teams. Those watching the effort say it has not only created a sense of community in the camp, but given the young players a sense of purpose.
Continue reading A soccer ball as treatment for refugee mental health
By: Abigaile Kootsillas
(Ritsona Refugee Camp, Greece)— Eighteen year old Malak Othman sits in a Greek refugee camp these days reflecting on her life five years ago. When she was 13, she fled her home in Syria. She joined thousands of others in a dangerous journey across the Aegean Sea, all in hopes of a better life, of a new home where should live independently and safely.
Continue reading A story of resilience – holding onto hope after years of uncertainty
By: Mary Siring
(Kera Tepe Refugee Camp, Lesvos, Greece.) — Individuals from all parts of the world are building bridges and creating avenues of expression within Greek refugee camps with the arts.
Refugees waiting in Greek refugee camps are given food, shelter, and toiletries- the necessities. The next step in creating more humane conditions is creating avenues for expression and ways to pass the time for residents.
By: Morgan Brouillet
(Scaramagas Refugee Camp, Greece) — Barbers Alcocknde has been a resident at the Scaramagas Refugee Camp in Athens, Greece for more than a year. The Saudi Arabia native ended up on the run with his Afghanistani wife after the Taliban attacked her. Her wounds were so severe she almost died, needing four surgeries to survive. They fled in the dark of night, and on a journey that took them on a flimsy boat from Turkey to Greece’s borders because it meant a chance of safety for them.
Continue reading Traumatized refugees refusing mental health help
By: Michael Blackburn
(Ritsona Refugee Camp, Greece) — Inside of the big barbed wire fence that encompasses the camp area lies a unique space. At first glance this may seem like an old shipping area defaced with graffiti, murals of space, and mermaids, but it is actually the Child Friendly Space (CFS) of Ritsona Refugee camp.
Continue reading Refugee camp volunteers disguise play as therapy
OU Refugee Report 