Media Literacy in Enhancing Mental Health Awareness among Afghan Refugees of Malakand Division, KP, Pakistan

Abstract

This study examine the current level of media literacy and their impact on the mental health awareness of Afghan refugees of Chakdara, because ongoing challenges faced by Afghan refugees, mental health issues are prevalent but often unreported and addressed due to a lack of education, mental health awareness becomes crucial. A quantitative research methodology was adopted in this research, while data was collected by cross- sectional survey design through simple random sampling method from 255 Afghan refugees of Chakdara Camp. Findings revealed that better understanding of mental health problems and more utilization of mental health services are correlated with higher media literacy. Enhancing media literacy not only improves mental health awareness but also promotes overall well-being and integration within the local community. Fostering a better awareness of issues related to their mental health, reducing stigma, and promoting the use of mental health services can be achieved by providing Afghan refugees with the necessary tools to access, analyze, and interpret information about mental health through various media platforms.