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‘A Dead Person Cannot Carry a Dead Person’: Health, Social Support and Language Learning Among Syrian Refugees in Norway

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Second language acquisition (SLA) is critical for refugee integration and a determinant of health and health care access. Although numerous studies have examined language barriers and health communication, the reciprocal relationship between health and second language acquisition remains underexplored in public health research. This qualitative study draws on interviews with twenty Syrian refugees (nine men and eleven women, aged 22-65) resettled in Norway. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Two overarching themes were identified: (1) Learning under strain: health problems and post-migratory stressors constrained SLA; and (2) Relational support: reciprocal interactions with neighbours, colleagues, and volunteers enabled both language learning and functional health. These social arenas acted as low-threshold, health-promoting settings that mitigated isolation and strengthened belonging. The study highlights that language operates as a social determinant of health: inclusive, relational spaces facilitate both SLA and health by enhancing communicative participation and access to care. Refugee integration policy should therefore support accessible community spaces outside formal education to strengthen social inclusion, health literacy and refugees' ability to navigate health and welfare services.

Source: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

DOI: 10.3390/ijerph23010047

Authors: Ayan B. Sheikh-Mohamed, Esperanza Diaz, Melanie Straiton, Arnfinn Jomar Andersen

Institutions: Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, University of Bergen, Norwegian Institute of Public Health

Language: English

Topic: Migration, Health and Trauma

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,016