Transformative Resilience: Harnessing ICT for Trauma Recovery and Community Empowerment among Eritrean Refugees

Abstract This study investigates the effectiveness of the TRUST intervention, delivered through Information and Communication Technology (ICT), in addressing trauma and enhancing resilience among Eritrean refugees in impoverished camps. The research aims to explore whether the comprehensive TRUST program, compared to a shorter psycho-education session, can reduce traumatic stress levels and improve social and economic resilience and social capital, indicating a reduction in collective trauma. Ethical approval was obtained, and participants were randomly assigned to intervention groups. Livelihood support availability was assessed, and psychometric tests were administered before and after the intervention. Results indicate a significant decrease in traumatic stress levels and improvements in social and economic resilience among participants receiving the full TRUST intervention. Interestingly, the availability of livelihood support did not significantly impact trauma levels or associated improvements. Challenges in delivering therapy via ICT, such as connectivity issues, were identified. This study underscores the potential of ICT-enabled interventions in addressing mental health challenges in resource-constrained environments but highlights the importance of addressing connectivity issues for effective implementation.