The Impact of Dramatherapy on the Mental Health of Socioeconomically Disadvantaged and Refugee Women in Lebanon

The need for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) is ever-present for vulnerable populations in the Arab World. High rates of psychological disorders including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety have been observed in the refugee and socioeconomically disadvantaged female population within Lebanon. MHPSS services are lacking and in need of reform to provide better services to disadvantaged populations. This study aims to examine the psychological impact of dramatherapy intervention (DTI) on the previously mentioned population. To evaluate the psychological effects of DTI, this study utilizes a quantitative and repeated measure design. Six scales were used to measure PTSD, depression, and anxiety prior to and after participation in a 3-month long, 12-session dramatherapy program. Eight DTI programs were implemented across Lebanon between October 2020 and August 2022. The participants of this study consisted of adult socioeconomically disadvantaged and refugee women who took part in DTI programs implemented by Intisar Foundation.