The United Refugees is a community-based volunteer initiative founded by Antony Chevenkov, a Russian genderqueer refugee living with ADHD. Our organisation aims to promote inclusivity in Dutch society by protecting the rights of the most vulnerable groups and by helping to ensure that Dutch legislation and regulations are implemented in practice.
Currently, we provide peer-to-peer consultations on accessing mental health services for LGBT+ asylum seekers and undocumented migrants. We also advocate for queer status holders with mental health challenges to receive the support they need throughout the integration process.
The United Refugees scales its peer-to-peer servise and is ready to implement similar services in any non-profit organizations working with LGBTQ+ issues upon request. We also provide our expertise in form of lectures and trainings for different organisations.
Another project of The United Refugees is this website, which provides essential well-being and social adaptation information from reliable sources.
Currently, we provide peer-to-peer consultations on accessing mental health services for LGBT+ asylum seekers and undocumented migrants. We also advocate for queer status holders with mental health challenges to receive the support they need throughout the integration process.
The United Refugees scales its peer-to-peer servise and is ready to implement similar services in any non-profit organizations working with LGBTQ+ issues upon request. We also provide our expertise in form of lectures and trainings for different organisations.
Another project of The United Refugees is this website, which provides essential well-being and social adaptation information from reliable sources.
Peer-to-Peer Service
At The United Refugees, we provide peer-to-peer consultations as non-BIG-registered coaches for queer asylum seekers, undocumented migrants, and status holders experiencing low mood, anxiety, severe stress, and other mental health challenges, as well as social maladaptation.
We help individuals navigate the Dutch healthcare system and access appropriate mental health services. This can be particularly challenging for newcomers who are still trying to find their way in a new society while coping with mental health symptoms, especially during a period of ongoing pressure on the healthcare system, long waiting times, and unexpected rejections.
If you have any concerns about your mental health, please contact us at Antony.UnitedRefugees@gmail.com. We usually respond within two working days. The United Refugees believes that support should be available as quickly as possible, which is why our peer-to-peer service has no waiting list.
We help individuals navigate the Dutch healthcare system and access appropriate mental health services. This can be particularly challenging for newcomers who are still trying to find their way in a new society while coping with mental health symptoms, especially during a period of ongoing pressure on the healthcare system, long waiting times, and unexpected rejections.
If you have any concerns about your mental health, please contact us at Antony.UnitedRefugees@gmail.com. We usually respond within two working days. The United Refugees believes that support should be available as quickly as possible, which is why our peer-to-peer service has no waiting list.
After you reach out the service, we will arrange a video call to listen to your concerns, help you identify suitable organizations to contact, and develop an action plan.
We typically schedule follow-up meetings to provide support and guidance throughout the process of accessing mental health care, as many people find it stressful and difficult to navigate due to administrative and bureaucratic obstacles.
Our work is complete once you have successfully received a referral to appropriate mental health services.
If your referral is rejected after your initial appointment, you are welcome to contact us again. We will assess whether the rejection was justified, help you file a complaint if necessary and return you to the clinic, but to another team, or work with you to develop a new action plan to reach another facility.
For those who have completed treatment and whose conditions have stabilised, we provide advice on integration into Dutch society and refer them to organisations that help with developing financial literacy, building a career, finding paid or volunteer work, and learning Dutch.
We typically schedule follow-up meetings to provide support and guidance throughout the process of accessing mental health care, as many people find it stressful and difficult to navigate due to administrative and bureaucratic obstacles.
Our work is complete once you have successfully received a referral to appropriate mental health services.
If your referral is rejected after your initial appointment, you are welcome to contact us again. We will assess whether the rejection was justified, help you file a complaint if necessary and return you to the clinic, but to another team, or work with you to develop a new action plan to reach another facility.
For those who have completed treatment and whose conditions have stabilised, we provide advice on integration into Dutch society and refer them to organisations that help with developing financial literacy, building a career, finding paid or volunteer work, and learning Dutch.
Reviews
DENIS
I am a refugee living with autism. The peer-to-peer service gave me step-by-step guidance on how to get mental health support. It was overwhelming to move from a refugee camp to my new home, because I needed to find and register with a GP to get a referral. The support I received at that time was very timely. The peer-to-peer service also advised me to get tested for ADHD. Later, my psychiatrist confirmed that I have ADHD too. I was also suggested to ask for ADHD skills training to help me succeed with my integration. Strangely, my psychiatrist did not offer this support at first.NAME HIDDEN
Thanks to the peer-to-peer service, I received help from a POH GGZ from the first days of my stay in the refugee camp. I live with borderline personality disorder, which is recognised as a severe mental health condition. The United Refugees' volunteer advised me to discuss my situation with COA and ask to stay alone in a room. I was also told to request that transfers be avoided because they could destabilise my mental health. With letters from my POH GGZ everything worked out.KIRILL
I felt burned out and had to stop working for a while. The peer-to-peer service advised me to get checked for depression. My general practitioner diagnosed me with depression and prescribed an antidepressant. Thanks to the treatment, I was able to return to my duties very quickly. It is very nice to have such well-trained and experienced volunteers supporting you.Partner
Essential information from reliable sources
for LGBT+ asylum seekers, undocumented migrants
and status holders in the Netherlands
تطبيقات المترجم
⭑ يحتوي متصفح Google Chrome على مترجم مدمج، والذي يقوم تلقائيًا بترجمة صفحة الويب إلى لغتك الأم.
⭑ يقوم تطبيق Google Translate بترجمة النص الأجنبي الموجود على الصور وكذلك الكلام الأجنبي إلى
نص بلغتك الأم.
TRANSLATOR APPS
⭑ Google Chrome Browser has a built-in translator, which automatically translates web page into your native language.
⭑ Google Translate App translates foreign text on photos and also foreign speech into text in your native tongue.
VERTALER APPS
⭑ Google Chrome Browser heeft een ingebouwde vertaler, die webpagina's automatisch naar uw moedertaal vertaalt.
⭑ Google Translate-app vertaalt buitenlandse tekst op foto's en ook buitenlandse spraak naar tekst in uw moedertaal.
LGBTQI+ Refugees
ORGANIZATIONS
LGBT+ Asylum Support provides support through the asylum procedure. Sandro Kortekaas, the founder, helped for those, who undeservedly received a negative decision from IND. Fill the contact form to reach access to whatsapp groups, where you can find information about organization's activities and events.
Trans United Europe and TransAmsterdam are well-known trangenders’ communities in The Netherlands.
LGBTQI+ bi-cultural organisations in The Netherlands are Maruf, Respect2Love, Kleurrijk Roze, Connecting Differences, Sex Matters.
GGD in your municipality can provide men, who have sex with men with free Hepatitis B vaccination, which can prevent Hepatitis B. GGD pays the major part of the price of PrEP medication for you, which prevents HIV. GGD also does free tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) without any referral.
If you have suicidal thoughts feel free to connect Dutch organisation 113 by phone, chat or apply for a short online suicide prevention course. 113 do not charge for its services. Both Dutch and English languages are available.
More information
Zanzu: Multilingual picture guide for sexual health
The Genderbread Person version 4
LGBT+ Asylum Support provides support through the asylum procedure. Sandro Kortekaas, the founder, helped for those, who undeservedly received a negative decision from IND. Fill the contact form to reach access to whatsapp groups, where you can find information about organization's activities and events.
Trans United Europe and TransAmsterdam are well-known trangenders’ communities in The Netherlands.
LGBTQI+ bi-cultural organisations in The Netherlands are Maruf, Respect2Love, Kleurrijk Roze, Connecting Differences, Sex Matters.
GGD in your municipality can provide men, who have sex with men with free Hepatitis B vaccination, which can prevent Hepatitis B. GGD pays the major part of the price of PrEP medication for you, which prevents HIV. GGD also does free tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) without any referral.
If you have suicidal thoughts feel free to connect Dutch organisation 113 by phone, chat or apply for a short online suicide prevention course. 113 do not charge for its services. Both Dutch and English languages are available.
More information
Zanzu: Multilingual picture guide for sexual health
The Genderbread Person version 4
COA LGBTQI+ CONTACT PERSON
If you are LGBTIQ+ human, get acquainted with LGBTIQ+ contact persons of your AZC. They are COA employees, who trained and understand your needs and should support you with your issues. They provide the contacts of the COC Cocktail in your munisipality. Tickets for its monthly meetings will be given by COC or COA.
In the room you should live with the same LGBTIQ+ humans as you. Ask them to help you with access to LGBTIQ+ whatsapp groups to communicate and know about events.
DISCRIMINATION
It is not possible to destroy homo- and transphobia forever in the whole world. The question is how small are they in the society and what can each of us personally do in daily life to improve equality? The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage and Amsterdam is called queer capital of Europe. But there are still some problems with equality and IND still uses stereotypes in its decisions according to LGBTIQ+ persons.
HOW TO REPORT?
If there are no reports about discrimination, the government doesn't see that the problem exists. And it do nothing. Only by collecting a large amount of reports we will be able to change things in a better way.
If you are LGBTIQ+ human, get acquainted with LGBTIQ+ contact persons of your AZC. They are COA employees, who trained and understand your needs and should support you with your issues. They provide the contacts of the COC Cocktail in your munisipality. Tickets for its monthly meetings will be given by COC or COA.
In the room you should live with the same LGBTIQ+ humans as you. Ask them to help you with access to LGBTIQ+ whatsapp groups to communicate and know about events.
DISCRIMINATION
It is not possible to destroy homo- and transphobia forever in the whole world. The question is how small are they in the society and what can each of us personally do in daily life to improve equality? The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage and Amsterdam is called queer capital of Europe. But there are still some problems with equality and IND still uses stereotypes in its decisions according to LGBTIQ+ persons.
HOW TO REPORT?
If there are no reports about discrimination, the government doesn't see that the problem exists. And it do nothing. Only by collecting a large amount of reports we will be able to change things in a better way.
⭑ The Netherlands has a Pink in Blue police force. It consists of well-trained policemen and policewomen, who are often LGBTIQ+ themselves. Pink in Blue respects your privacy and you can count on sympathetic treatment. When you become the victim of a hate crime, call +31 88 16 91 234 and report this to Pink in Blue.
⭑ COA LGBTIQ+ contact persons will help you, if you face homo- and transphobia too.
⭑ Report discrimination to anti-discrim-ination center in your municipality.
⭑ Report to Sandro Kortekaas from LGBT Asylum Support. They collect their own statistics and make reports to the autorites directly.
⭑ Feel free to ask for psychological help online from your national LGBTIQ+ organisations. Dutch 113 is here for you for suicide prevention.
5D'S BYSTANDER INTERVENTION
What's worse than experiencing harassment related to your identity? Well, is being surrounded by bystanders who see it happening, but do nothing about it.
5D’s bystander intervention is a bunch of strategies you can use. They are Distract, Delegate, Document, Delay, and Direct. They are designed to be safe and not to escalate situations. When we intervent, not only do we reduce the trauma of harassment for the person who was harmed, we exclude traumatization of ourselves as a witness of emotional or physical violence. We also slowly chip away at the culture of harassment and replace it with one of humanity. By using 5D’s you emphasize that harassment is not okay, and demonstrate to people in your life that they have the power to make their community safer.
The 5D’s bystander intervention in detail
⭑ COA LGBTIQ+ contact persons will help you, if you face homo- and transphobia too.
⭑ Report discrimination to anti-discrim-ination center in your municipality.
⭑ Report to Sandro Kortekaas from LGBT Asylum Support. They collect their own statistics and make reports to the autorites directly.
⭑ Feel free to ask for psychological help online from your national LGBTIQ+ organisations. Dutch 113 is here for you for suicide prevention.
5D'S BYSTANDER INTERVENTION
What's worse than experiencing harassment related to your identity? Well, is being surrounded by bystanders who see it happening, but do nothing about it.
5D’s bystander intervention is a bunch of strategies you can use. They are Distract, Delegate, Document, Delay, and Direct. They are designed to be safe and not to escalate situations. When we intervent, not only do we reduce the trauma of harassment for the person who was harmed, we exclude traumatization of ourselves as a witness of emotional or physical violence. We also slowly chip away at the culture of harassment and replace it with one of humanity. By using 5D’s you emphasize that harassment is not okay, and demonstrate to people in your life that they have the power to make their community safer.
The 5D’s bystander intervention in detail
Transgender Refugees
HORMONE THERAPY
Sometimes GZA refuses to give hormone therapy for trangender persons or can’t refer them to the Gender Clinic. Sending an official request on e-mail to your camp’s GZA doctor should help. Describe your request in a polite tone and attach all documents, confirming you used to take hormonal therapy in the home country with translation into English or Dutch. It can be prescriptions, certificates, conclusions of an endocrinologist, etc. Indicate the name of the medicine, dosage, time interval between taking the medicine. You can find the email of your camp’s GZA here. If it will not work, you can make complaint via the form on website. This can be done in English or Dutch. Be prepared for the content of the complaint to become known to the person you are complaining about.
GENDER MARKER CHANGE
Under the Dutch Transgender Act (Wet transgender), updating your gender marker on civil records allows you to change your given name(s) simultaneously free of charge. Surname (last name) changes are governed by a completely separate, strict administrative process throughMinistry of Justice.
Transpersons should meet the following criteria for documents replacement:
⭑ Be over 16 years old: CORRECT. Parental consent is not required for individuals aged 16 or older.
⭑ Be legally in The Netherlands for at least a year.
⭑ You must be registered in the Personal Records Database (Basisregistratie Personen / BRP) and have a BSN number (Citizen Service Number).
⭑ A residence permit.
⭑ A certificate of passing the commission allows you to change documents. An expert statement must be issued by an officially designated, BIG-registered medical professional, psychologist, or psychiatrist listed in the government CIBG register.
Sometimes GZA refuses to give hormone therapy for trangender persons or can’t refer them to the Gender Clinic. Sending an official request on e-mail to your camp’s GZA doctor should help. Describe your request in a polite tone and attach all documents, confirming you used to take hormonal therapy in the home country with translation into English or Dutch. It can be prescriptions, certificates, conclusions of an endocrinologist, etc. Indicate the name of the medicine, dosage, time interval between taking the medicine. You can find the email of your camp’s GZA here. If it will not work, you can make complaint via the form on website. This can be done in English or Dutch. Be prepared for the content of the complaint to become known to the person you are complaining about.
GENDER MARKER CHANGE
Under the Dutch Transgender Act (Wet transgender), updating your gender marker on civil records allows you to change your given name(s) simultaneously free of charge. Surname (last name) changes are governed by a completely separate, strict administrative process throughMinistry of Justice.
Transpersons should meet the following criteria for documents replacement:
⭑ Be over 16 years old: CORRECT. Parental consent is not required for individuals aged 16 or older.
⭑ Be legally in The Netherlands for at least a year.
⭑ You must be registered in the Personal Records Database (Basisregistratie Personen / BRP) and have a BSN number (Citizen Service Number).
⭑ A residence permit.
⭑ A certificate of passing the commission allows you to change documents. An expert statement must be issued by an officially designated, BIG-registered medical professional, psychologist, or psychiatrist listed in the government CIBG register.
⭑ A certified copy of your foreign birth certificate, legalized or apostilled depending on your country of origin, must be provided. If it is not possible for refugees, there should be exemptions.
⭑ Legalized or apostilled parents' marriage certificate (In the Municipality of The Hague)
⭑ Certificate of adoption, if applicable.
⭑ A сertificate of name change, if name was changed in home country, if applicable.
⭑ Documents must be in Dutch, English, French, or German. If written in another language, they must be translated into one of these four languages by a sworn translator.
⭑ The procedure takes about 3 months.
TIPS & TRICKS
⭑ TransUnited in connection with VWN is gonna help you and guide you through the process of documents replacement.
⭑ Asylum seekers, who have no BSN number, can apply for it through COA. Gender marker change in documents can be identified as the basis for priority receiving BSN. You should be six months or more in The Netherlands to have the right to apply for a BSN.
Transvisie
Name change on justis.nl
Transgender netwerk
⭑ Legalized or apostilled parents' marriage certificate (In the Municipality of The Hague)
⭑ Certificate of adoption, if applicable.
⭑ A сertificate of name change, if name was changed in home country, if applicable.
⭑ Documents must be in Dutch, English, French, or German. If written in another language, they must be translated into one of these four languages by a sworn translator.
⭑ The procedure takes about 3 months.
TIPS & TRICKS
⭑ TransUnited in connection with VWN is gonna help you and guide you through the process of documents replacement.
⭑ Asylum seekers, who have no BSN number, can apply for it through COA. Gender marker change in documents can be identified as the basis for priority receiving BSN. You should be six months or more in The Netherlands to have the right to apply for a BSN.
Transvisie
Name change on justis.nl
Transgender netwerk
Physical activity
Physical activity is essential for mental health. For example, it's helpful for people living with ADHD and is one of the treatments for depression.
There can be football or volleyball squares inside or outside of the refugee camp. There can be a gym on the territory of AZC or COA provides you by this facility outside the camp. Another COA gives you reimbursement of part of the cost of gym subscription. Ask your COA about the list of leisure, which available. Posters with announcements are hung on information boards. This information can be also found on the site www.mycoa.nl.
A cycling is a good option for prevention and treating depression as it gives aerobic exercise of sufficient intensity.
In the Netherlands bikes are an equal participant in the road traffic. But be careful. Treating fracture, while living in AZC is challenging, because it needs much assistance and most camps are not suitable for disabled persons.
In order to ensure the safety of yourself and other road users, your full attention should be on the road while traveling. Learn the rules of the road, road signs, indicate with your hand before turning the direction in which you are turning, have the necessary lights and reflectors, handle for phone, if you use it for navigation, working brakes, bell and do not use headphones while driving in a busy place and have reliable lock. Bike theft happens sometimes.
Traffic and transport
7 things that will get you fined while cycling
There can be football or volleyball squares inside or outside of the refugee camp. There can be a gym on the territory of AZC or COA provides you by this facility outside the camp. Another COA gives you reimbursement of part of the cost of gym subscription. Ask your COA about the list of leisure, which available. Posters with announcements are hung on information boards. This information can be also found on the site www.mycoa.nl.
A cycling is a good option for prevention and treating depression as it gives aerobic exercise of sufficient intensity.
In the Netherlands bikes are an equal participant in the road traffic. But be careful. Treating fracture, while living in AZC is challenging, because it needs much assistance and most camps are not suitable for disabled persons.
In order to ensure the safety of yourself and other road users, your full attention should be on the road while traveling. Learn the rules of the road, road signs, indicate with your hand before turning the direction in which you are turning, have the necessary lights and reflectors, handle for phone, if you use it for navigation, working brakes, bell and do not use headphones while driving in a busy place and have reliable lock. Bike theft happens sometimes.
Traffic and transport
7 things that will get you fined while cycling
WHERE TO BUY BIKES
WHERE TO RENT BIKES
You can rent a bike at some AZCs.
FRACTURE
Got a bike accident? The main signs of a fracture are acute pain that intensifies with movement or stress, severe swelling, bruising, visible deformity of the limb, and the inability to use the injured body part normally. Call the GZA hotline for emergency. Ambulance can be provided, if needed. Ask for an X-ray to exclude or confirm fracture. Police officers are on site to help you. They can also call an ambulance.
- Market place on Facebook. You can bargain there.
- Second hands.
- At some AZC at bike repair center.
- On Marktplaats site you can find bicycles even for free.
WHERE TO RENT BIKES
You can rent a bike at some AZCs.
FRACTURE
Got a bike accident? The main signs of a fracture are acute pain that intensifies with movement or stress, severe swelling, bruising, visible deformity of the limb, and the inability to use the injured body part normally. Call the GZA hotline for emergency. Ambulance can be provided, if needed. Ask for an X-ray to exclude or confirm fracture. Police officers are on site to help you. They can also call an ambulance.
Connection
Psychiatrist Dr. Hallowell, who lives himself with ADHD, often refers to positive human contact and community as Vitamin Connect. He stresses that meaningful relationships and feeling understood are vital tonics for managing the emotional and social hurdles of ADHD. The same is true for most people.
The Buddy to Buddy program connects newcomers displaced from their home countries with other residents of a city or village based on equality and common interests.
The Buddy to Buddy program connects newcomers displaced from their home countries with other residents of a city or village based on equality and common interests.
COA LEISURE BUDGET
In 2026 COA provides up to €156 per year (maximum €13 monthly) per refugee for leisure and sports, covering 50% of expenses for museums, theatres, gyms, swimming pools, etc. Expenses, including the Museumkaart, can be reimbursed up to 50% in consultation with COA.
In 2026 COA provides up to €156 per year (maximum €13 monthly) per refugee for leisure and sports, covering 50% of expenses for museums, theatres, gyms, swimming pools, etc. Expenses, including the Museumkaart, can be reimbursed up to 50% in consultation with COA.
Dutch Language
Dutch language free courses are available in AZCs, universities, public libraries and digital apps. The United Refugees organisation helps refugees with dyslexia and dysgraphia to reach screening and evaluation. We also help status holders to reach trained Dutch language teacher through integration program and guide them to protect the rights for inclusive educational environment. Fell free to contact Antony Cherenkov with any question by email.
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
BE KIND TO OTHERS
Inclusive language
Language can reinforce both negative and positive perceptions about others. Inclusive language acknowledges the unique values, culture and experiences of individuals or groups. Derogatory or discriminatory language undervalues individuals or groups, denigrates, humiliates and perpetuates stereotypes and inequality in society.
Gender-biased expressions like “He fights like a girl”, “In a manly way”, “Oh, that’s women’s work” reinforce gender stereotypes based on cis-gendered male supremacy over centuries. It is better to avoid them. Phrases such as ‘“You’re so gay!” and “That’s so gay!” are the most common forms of homophobic behavior. Unfortunately, people may not necessarily understand that their comments are inappropriate and perpetuates inequality in society. Calling people living with HIV, persons with mental illness or with disability as infected, mentally ill or invalids can be harmful and painful as much as reinforce stigma. People engaged in sex work or persons with a substance use disorder are not be called in offensive way as prostitutes and junkies.
Pronouns are one way people refer to each other and themselves. Most but not all men (including trans men) use the pronoun “he”. Likewise, most but not all women (including trans women) use the pronoun “she”. Some people use a gender-neutral pronoun such as “they”. For example, “Pip drives their car to work. They don’t like walking because it takes them too long”. If you’re unsure what someone’s pronoun is, you can ask them respectfully, and preferably privately. Use a question like: “Can I ask what pronoun you use?”.
Inclusive language can help to create a culture of mutual respect, dignity, inclusion, belonging and community. And each of us can contribute daily to it.
Guidelines for gender-inclusive language
Disability-inclusive language guidelines
LGBTIQ+ inclusive language guide
Inclusive Language Guidelines
Amnesty International Guide (Australia)
Gender-biased expressions like “He fights like a girl”, “In a manly way”, “Oh, that’s women’s work” reinforce gender stereotypes based on cis-gendered male supremacy over centuries. It is better to avoid them. Phrases such as ‘“You’re so gay!” and “That’s so gay!” are the most common forms of homophobic behavior. Unfortunately, people may not necessarily understand that their comments are inappropriate and perpetuates inequality in society. Calling people living with HIV, persons with mental illness or with disability as infected, mentally ill or invalids can be harmful and painful as much as reinforce stigma. People engaged in sex work or persons with a substance use disorder are not be called in offensive way as prostitutes and junkies.
Pronouns are one way people refer to each other and themselves. Most but not all men (including trans men) use the pronoun “he”. Likewise, most but not all women (including trans women) use the pronoun “she”. Some people use a gender-neutral pronoun such as “they”. For example, “Pip drives their car to work. They don’t like walking because it takes them too long”. If you’re unsure what someone’s pronoun is, you can ask them respectfully, and preferably privately. Use a question like: “Can I ask what pronoun you use?”.
Inclusive language can help to create a culture of mutual respect, dignity, inclusion, belonging and community. And each of us can contribute daily to it.
Guidelines for gender-inclusive language
Disability-inclusive language guidelines
LGBTIQ+ inclusive language guide
Inclusive Language Guidelines
Amnesty International Guide (Australia)
Evidence Based Medicine
Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is a type of medicine, which is based only on scientific proven treatments and diagnostic procedures. It was invented in 1990 and enables patients to receive effective, safe and personalized treatment based on proven data. The World Health Organization supports EBM as fundamental to improving health outcomes, guiding policy, and shaping global public health strategies.
THE INTERNATIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF DISEASES
The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is The World Health Organization's globally endorsed coding system for diseases, symptoms, external causes, and health conditions. It helps your doctors make evidence-based decisions. Health planners, clinicians, insurers, and researchers rely on ICD-coded data to allocate resources, design interventions, conduct clinical research, and evaluate safety and effectiveness. The International Classification of Diseases, is revised approximately every 10 years to stay current with advances in medical science. It is done through the widest global consensus of scientists and practitioners from all countries, who work for years in revision committees. The ICD‑11 is the latest version and it officially entered into effect on 1 January 2022. The WHO anticipates the Netherlands fully implements ICD‑11 in doctors practice and other areas around 2026–2027. Meanwhile the Netherlands have to rely on ICD‑10 codes.
THE INTERNATIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF DISEASES
The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is The World Health Organization's globally endorsed coding system for diseases, symptoms, external causes, and health conditions. It helps your doctors make evidence-based decisions. Health planners, clinicians, insurers, and researchers rely on ICD-coded data to allocate resources, design interventions, conduct clinical research, and evaluate safety and effectiveness. The International Classification of Diseases, is revised approximately every 10 years to stay current with advances in medical science. It is done through the widest global consensus of scientists and practitioners from all countries, who work for years in revision committees. The ICD‑11 is the latest version and it officially entered into effect on 1 January 2022. The WHO anticipates the Netherlands fully implements ICD‑11 in doctors practice and other areas around 2026–2027. Meanwhile the Netherlands have to rely on ICD‑10 codes.
RMA Health Insurance Coverage
Asylum seekers provided by the government with free access to medical care. Your insurance company is RMA Healthcare. You are fully eligible for the provisions after 2 months. Until that time, you are only entitled to medically necessary care and care that can’t be delayed. The rule doesn’t apply to children.
CARE FOR CHILDREN
Children in a reception center get the same medical care as Dutch children. A family with children with disability can receive larger or adjusted accom-modation. COA can also place a special bed or sling hoist, or deploy home care to nurse the child. In all cases, COA discusses with the GZA what is medically necessary.
More about Health insurance.
Pharos
CARE FOR CHILDREN
Children in a reception center get the same medical care as Dutch children. A family with children with disability can receive larger or adjusted accom-modation. COA can also place a special bed or sling hoist, or deploy home care to nurse the child. In all cases, COA discusses with the GZA what is medically necessary.
More about Health insurance.
Pharos
DENTAL CARE
Adult asylum seekers (18+) are only entitled to dental care if they have serious pain and/or chewing complaints (emergency care), to a maximum of 250 euros per year. For children, there is more extensive dental care, including a preventive annual check.
More detailed information about the payment of dental care is available in the Medical Care for Asylum Seekers Regulations (RMA).
MEDICATIONS
Refugees, like the Dutch, receive free medicines in pharmacies with a prescription from a doctor. If you don't want to stand in line at GZA to get paracetamol, allergy medicine and other simple medications, you can buy them in supermarkets like Albert Heijn and Kruidvat.
Adult asylum seekers (18+) are only entitled to dental care if they have serious pain and/or chewing complaints (emergency care), to a maximum of 250 euros per year. For children, there is more extensive dental care, including a preventive annual check.
More detailed information about the payment of dental care is available in the Medical Care for Asylum Seekers Regulations (RMA).
MEDICATIONS
Refugees, like the Dutch, receive free medicines in pharmacies with a prescription from a doctor. If you don't want to stand in line at GZA to get paracetamol, allergy medicine and other simple medications, you can buy them in supermarkets like Albert Heijn and Kruidvat.
FLU VACCINATION
In autumn you will get an invitation letter from your general practitioner (GZA) for flu vaccination, if you have certain health problems or you are 60 years of age or older.
SEXUAL HEALTH
By having sex you can get an sexually transmitted disease (STD). Especially if you don’t use a condom. Sometimes STDs will cause symptoms, but not always. With an STD test you will know for sure if you have an STD or not. Most STDs are treatable with medication. Some STDs never heal.
Zanzu: Multilingual picture guide for sexual health
TIPS & TRICKS
If you have any doubts about whether this is included in your insurance or GZA nurse or doctor refuses to provide you with any services, you can always call the insurance company or check it on the RMA Healthcare site. In some cases GZA hotline can be useful too.
In autumn you will get an invitation letter from your general practitioner (GZA) for flu vaccination, if you have certain health problems or you are 60 years of age or older.
SEXUAL HEALTH
By having sex you can get an sexually transmitted disease (STD). Especially if you don’t use a condom. Sometimes STDs will cause symptoms, but not always. With an STD test you will know for sure if you have an STD or not. Most STDs are treatable with medication. Some STDs never heal.
Zanzu: Multilingual picture guide for sexual health
TIPS & TRICKS
If you have any doubts about whether this is included in your insurance or GZA nurse or doctor refuses to provide you with any services, you can always call the insurance company or check it on the RMA Healthcare site. In some cases GZA hotline can be useful too.
HIV ISN'T FATAL
HIV is a virus that can be get through unprotected sex or blood. The best protection are condoms, PrEP or PEP.
Nowadays, when modern treatment for HIV is available, people live long and productive lives with HIV as a chronic disorder, which is less dangerous than diabetes. Persons, who have HIV and regularry take medicine and whose viral load is undetectable, can’t transmit HIV even having sex without a condom. They can born children without HIV virus.
What makes people living with HIV suffer now, is stigma. HIV stigma is negative attitudes and beliefs about people with HIV, which based on stereotypes. Stereotypes are untrue, illusory and irrational statements. HIV stigma comes from lack of education and wrong information, which does not match scientific data.
HIV is a virus that can be get through unprotected sex or blood. The best protection are condoms, PrEP or PEP.
Nowadays, when modern treatment for HIV is available, people live long and productive lives with HIV as a chronic disorder, which is less dangerous than diabetes. Persons, who have HIV and regularry take medicine and whose viral load is undetectable, can’t transmit HIV even having sex without a condom. They can born children without HIV virus.
What makes people living with HIV suffer now, is stigma. HIV stigma is negative attitudes and beliefs about people with HIV, which based on stereotypes. Stereotypes are untrue, illusory and irrational statements. HIV stigma comes from lack of education and wrong information, which does not match scientific data.
HIV TRANSMISSION
HIV is found mostly in blood and sperm. You can get HIV through sex:
⭑ Anal or vaginal sex without condom
⭑ Cum in mouth. Chances are very small in this case
You can also get HIV from a dirty needle. For example, if you:
⭑ Inject drugs with a needle used by someone else before
⭑ Get a tattoo in a foreign country. Sometimes this is not safe
⭑ Get a blood transfusion in a hospital in a foreign country. Not every country checks blood properly for HIV
HIV is found mostly in blood and sperm. You can get HIV through sex:
⭑ Anal or vaginal sex without condom
⭑ Cum in mouth. Chances are very small in this case
You can also get HIV from a dirty needle. For example, if you:
⭑ Inject drugs with a needle used by someone else before
⭑ Get a tattoo in a foreign country. Sometimes this is not safe
⭑ Get a blood transfusion in a hospital in a foreign country. Not every country checks blood properly for HIV
NO WAY
You don’t get HIV by getting close to people. Virus can't live in atmosphere. So you will not get HIV, for example, from:
⭑ A toilet seat
⭑ Shaking or holding hands
⭑ Hugging and cuddling
⭑ French kissing (tongue kissing)
⭑ Dishes or towels
If someone with HIV takes medication, they can't pass on HIV anymore, even if having unprotected sex.
N = N
More information
You don’t get HIV by getting close to people. Virus can't live in atmosphere. So you will not get HIV, for example, from:
⭑ A toilet seat
⭑ Shaking or holding hands
⭑ Hugging and cuddling
⭑ French kissing (tongue kissing)
⭑ Dishes or towels
If someone with HIV takes medication, they can't pass on HIV anymore, even if having unprotected sex.
N = N
More information
HIV-TREATMENT
Asylum seekers in The Netherlands, living with HIV, receive the medication for free trough insurance. Moreover everyone has a right to medical help, even when they are briefly or temporarily uninsured. Make a GZA appointment and the doctor will refer you to the hospital. There a nurse does blood-testing and after receiving results you will get medication. Be calm, if you are not taking medicine for 1 to 10 days or even more because of your flee from the country of origin. Most likely the viral load will remain undetectable for a long time and resistance won't definitely develop. What is dangerous and totally prohibited to do is to take half of daily dose or take HIV-medicine not on a regular basis. For example, one day you take, another two days don't take, another day take, then again don't take for a day or several days. It causes resistance to the medicine, so it will not work for you anymore.
Asylum seekers in The Netherlands, living with HIV, receive the medication for free trough insurance. Moreover everyone has a right to medical help, even when they are briefly or temporarily uninsured. Make a GZA appointment and the doctor will refer you to the hospital. There a nurse does blood-testing and after receiving results you will get medication. Be calm, if you are not taking medicine for 1 to 10 days or even more because of your flee from the country of origin. Most likely the viral load will remain undetectable for a long time and resistance won't definitely develop. What is dangerous and totally prohibited to do is to take half of daily dose or take HIV-medicine not on a regular basis. For example, one day you take, another two days don't take, another day take, then again don't take for a day or several days. It causes resistance to the medicine, so it will not work for you anymore.
WORKSHOPS & EVENTS
You live with HIV and are curious about the latest medical developments and aspects of living with HIV in The Netherlands, aren’t you? Do you want to know how to come to terms with HIV and feel positive about it? Then the Living Positive brochure and the RESET workshop is made for you!
HIV Association walk-in consultation
RESET workshop
Living Positive brochure
Share the power
Other events
SOAIDS
You live with HIV and are curious about the latest medical developments and aspects of living with HIV in The Netherlands, aren’t you? Do you want to know how to come to terms with HIV and feel positive about it? Then the Living Positive brochure and the RESET workshop is made for you!
HIV Association walk-in consultation
RESET workshop
Living Positive brochure
Share the power
Other events
SOAIDS
Refugees with Mental &
Neurocognitive Disorders
Neurocognitive Disorders
DUTCH MENTAL HEALTH SYSTEM
Mental health care in the Netherlands meets modern international quality standards and is based on the diagnostic criteria of ICD-10 and DSM-5-TR. National treatment recommendations are based on WHO recommendations, so the effectiveness of a treatment for a particular mental disorder have be evidence based. Unfortunately, the shortage of specialists in providing mental health care, growing demand and financial reasons caused by health insurers leads to long queues. Access to psychiatry is difficult both for refugees and for residents. Waiting lists of Dutch mental health clinics are from 2 months till 1 year or even more. Also, training and retraining of mental health specialists in new modern diagnostic and treatment protocols sometimes remains at an insufficient level compared to leading international clinics. Another problem is the inflexible and long-unupdated care protocols issued by the Dutch Ministry of Health. Burnout of overloaded mental health workers is added to the general list of problems. Therefore, for now, the best mental health care is provided in private clinics in the Netherlands..
HOW TO GET HELP AT REFUGEE CAMPS
ACCOMODATION
SUICIDAL THOUGTS
If you have suicidal thoughts feel free to call to 113 Suicide Prevention. They employ psychologists and psychiatrists and a large group of fully trained volunteers who provide round-the-clock confidential support through chats and phone calls.
PSYCHOEDUCATION
Psychoeducation is a first recommended treatment for any disorder. Psychoeducation mean to receive contemporary scientific information about your disorder, treatment and efficiency of self-help techniques from reliable sources or mental health providers. For example, Mind Project.
PSYCHOTHERAPY
Mental health care in the Netherlands meets modern international quality standards and is based on the diagnostic criteria of ICD-10 and DSM-5-TR. National treatment recommendations are based on WHO recommendations, so the effectiveness of a treatment for a particular mental disorder have be evidence based. Unfortunately, the shortage of specialists in providing mental health care, growing demand and financial reasons caused by health insurers leads to long queues. Access to psychiatry is difficult both for refugees and for residents. Waiting lists of Dutch mental health clinics are from 2 months till 1 year or even more. Also, training and retraining of mental health specialists in new modern diagnostic and treatment protocols sometimes remains at an insufficient level compared to leading international clinics. Another problem is the inflexible and long-unupdated care protocols issued by the Dutch Ministry of Health. Burnout of overloaded mental health workers is added to the general list of problems. Therefore, for now, the best mental health care is provided in private clinics in the Netherlands..
HOW TO GET HELP AT REFUGEE CAMPS
- If you know the name of the medication that helped you in the country of departure and it’s certified in The Netherlands, a general practitioner from GZA will prescribe it to you. Especially, if you have an old prescription or package of your medicine or letter from psychiatrist from abroad.
- If your symptoms are mild, you can usually be treated by GZA GP (general practitioner, "home doctor"). E.g. antidepressants can be prescribed by GP for mild depression and\or anxiety disorders with mild symptoms.
- It is recommended by WHO and APA to start taking antidepressants with a gradual increase in dose. Remember that most antidepressants have a withdrawal syndrome and should not be stopped abruptly too.Benzodiazepine tranquilizers are addictive and can not be used more than 2 weeks. Read more about antidepressants here.
- Praktijkondersteuner Huisartsen Geestelijke Geestelijke GezondheidsZorg (POH GGZ) refers to GP Practice Support – Mental Healthcare.These professionals work within GP practices to address psychological or psychosocial complaints like stress, mild depression, anxiety, grief, and burnout, provide short-term interventions and guide referrals if needed, are not doctors and do not prescribe medication; they work under GP oversight and also maintain confidential records within the GP’s system.
- GZA GP or POH GGZ are not trained to diagnose complicated cases and have to refer you to the mental health clinic. Sometimes, they refuse to send people to metal health clinics. In case of severe symptoms, you should insist on referring you to the mental health clinic, voice your request several times and give arguments in favor of the severity of your symptoms and difficulties in functioning, sending request by e-mail to GP.
- You can contact with mental health clinics via phone or email in advance to clarify if they take a new patients, what is the waiting lists for your disorder and ask your GZA GP or POH GGZ to refer you in a particular clinic.
- Everything that you say will be written in GZA computer system and GP and people from GZA-office have access to it.
- Emergency psychiatric care can be reached through GZA Hotline or 112 phone number.
ACCOMODATION
- Today in The Netherlands there are no special asylum routes and facilities for asylum seekers with mental disorders as the most vulnerable group. But, if according medical reasons you need a separate room, COA should provide you with it. Ask for a paper from your GZA GP or POH GGZ with the demand and send it by e-mail to your COA contact person and\or the local manager of the camp.
- United Refugees have encountered cases when refugees were refused, citing a lack of available rooms, or request being resolved within a couple of months. Sometimes you have to be persistent. Make your repeated requests with explanation, why you need it but in polite manner.
SUICIDAL THOUGTS
If you have suicidal thoughts feel free to call to 113 Suicide Prevention. They employ psychologists and psychiatrists and a large group of fully trained volunteers who provide round-the-clock confidential support through chats and phone calls.
PSYCHOEDUCATION
Psychoeducation is a first recommended treatment for any disorder. Psychoeducation mean to receive contemporary scientific information about your disorder, treatment and efficiency of self-help techniques from reliable sources or mental health providers. For example, Mind Project.
PSYCHOTHERAPY
- Different types of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is evidence-based method for most of mental disorders. You can read more about it at Dutch Mental Health Quality Standards. Just choose your diagnosis.
- It is important to understand that for each specific mental disorder, certain types of psychotherapy are effective. Therefore, it is very important to get a correct diagnosis from a psychiatrist first.
- First session is mostly for getting acquainted with each other. So tell not only about yourself and ask a specialist, you have been referred from GZA, about his\her\their education and how exactly he\she\they can help you. You both will find a better way to support you. Remember responsibility for your health relies on you, firstly.
SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance, such as alcohol, tobacco, or other psychoactive substances, despite harmful consequences.
In the Netherlands you can find multiple clinics, which can help you with addiction. Medications are sometimes used to relieve withdrawal symptoms and help in stopping consumption of several substances. Psychotherapy and support from trained peers who have coped with this disorder or support from a social worker are part of the treatment and prevention of relapses. It is better for your family members and friend be trained in clinic how to help you with SUD.
Drug Addicts Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous approach is not evidence bases medical intervention. Safety and efficiency are still questioned, while the groups of DA and AA are quite popular.
While you are in refugee camp or on a waiting list to the clinic SMART Recovery can be useful service to confront an addiction. SMART Recovery is a free online meetings, where you can learn evidenced-based recovery tools, listen about others recovery experience or share yours. It is anonymous and does not require anything other than your willingness to attend the meetings.
TIPS & TRICKS: MEDIFIRST
Medifirst assessment is not mandatory and you can refuse this service. That's why authorities have to receive your written permission for it. MediFirst nurses and doctors check whether the asylum seeker is physically and mentally capable of participating in hearings and whether there are any medical limitations that should be considered during hearings and when making decisions. After the MediFirst examination, most asylum seekers receive a letter with a scheduled second interview with IND in a period of 6 - 12 weeks.
Your interview will be postponed for six months or less if you
⭑ say to the MediFirst practitioner that you have suicidal thoughts;
⭑ have an exacerbation of mental disorder(s).
If you have a mental disorder and didn’t receive treatment, you should convince the MediFirst practitioner, that your state is stable and you are capable of going through an interview.
It is important for people with mental health problems to be interviewed quickly to gain access to the treatment they need. Uncertainty and life in a camp not suitable for people with mental disorders often only worsen their condition.
If you decide to go to the MediFirst assessment, think in advance about how your specialties can interfere with the interview and interrupt receiving the positive decision. Wright for yourself what needs to be done to help you during hearings. Some people need breaks every hour, some need a room with a window, and some have memory problems and find it difficult to accurately remember dates or names and this should definitely be voiced during the Medifirst assessment.
HOUSING INTERVIEW & SMA
If an asylum seeker wishes to be eligible for resettlement in a specific area, has the right to fast track housing, a specific type of home or assisted living due to medical and/or psychosocial circumstances, an independent social health advice SMA from MediFirst is required. Read more in "Housing Interview" Article on The United refugees site below.
INTEGRATION
It is important for refugees living with mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders to involve psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers from your mental clinics. Municipality employees are not trained to work with people with mental disorders and are required to involve practitioners from your mental clinic to receive recommendations for conditions and achievable goals of integration, because of your special needs and disabilities, and also to help with the creation of PIP, to support of PIP implementation, to define the suitable stage of your treatment for the start of PIP. For more details read the Dutch Civic Integration article on The United Refugees site below.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance, such as alcohol, tobacco, or other psychoactive substances, despite harmful consequences.
In the Netherlands you can find multiple clinics, which can help you with addiction. Medications are sometimes used to relieve withdrawal symptoms and help in stopping consumption of several substances. Psychotherapy and support from trained peers who have coped with this disorder or support from a social worker are part of the treatment and prevention of relapses. It is better for your family members and friend be trained in clinic how to help you with SUD.
Drug Addicts Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous approach is not evidence bases medical intervention. Safety and efficiency are still questioned, while the groups of DA and AA are quite popular.
While you are in refugee camp or on a waiting list to the clinic SMART Recovery can be useful service to confront an addiction. SMART Recovery is a free online meetings, where you can learn evidenced-based recovery tools, listen about others recovery experience or share yours. It is anonymous and does not require anything other than your willingness to attend the meetings.
TIPS & TRICKS: MEDIFIRST
Medifirst assessment is not mandatory and you can refuse this service. That's why authorities have to receive your written permission for it. MediFirst nurses and doctors check whether the asylum seeker is physically and mentally capable of participating in hearings and whether there are any medical limitations that should be considered during hearings and when making decisions. After the MediFirst examination, most asylum seekers receive a letter with a scheduled second interview with IND in a period of 6 - 12 weeks.
Your interview will be postponed for six months or less if you
⭑ say to the MediFirst practitioner that you have suicidal thoughts;
⭑ have an exacerbation of mental disorder(s).
If you have a mental disorder and didn’t receive treatment, you should convince the MediFirst practitioner, that your state is stable and you are capable of going through an interview.
It is important for people with mental health problems to be interviewed quickly to gain access to the treatment they need. Uncertainty and life in a camp not suitable for people with mental disorders often only worsen their condition.
If you decide to go to the MediFirst assessment, think in advance about how your specialties can interfere with the interview and interrupt receiving the positive decision. Wright for yourself what needs to be done to help you during hearings. Some people need breaks every hour, some need a room with a window, and some have memory problems and find it difficult to accurately remember dates or names and this should definitely be voiced during the Medifirst assessment.
HOUSING INTERVIEW & SMA
If an asylum seeker wishes to be eligible for resettlement in a specific area, has the right to fast track housing, a specific type of home or assisted living due to medical and/or psychosocial circumstances, an independent social health advice SMA from MediFirst is required. Read more in "Housing Interview" Article on The United refugees site below.
INTEGRATION
It is important for refugees living with mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders to involve psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers from your mental clinics. Municipality employees are not trained to work with people with mental disorders and are required to involve practitioners from your mental clinic to receive recommendations for conditions and achievable goals of integration, because of your special needs and disabilities, and also to help with the creation of PIP, to support of PIP implementation, to define the suitable stage of your treatment for the start of PIP. For more details read the Dutch Civic Integration article on The United Refugees site below.
Major Depression Disorder
MAJOR DEPRESSION DISORDER (MDD)
is a malfunction in the human nervous system that indicates both or one of basic symptoms:1) having a depressed mood (e.g. depressed, feels sad, empty, hopeless, low mood, appears tearful, ets.) and 2) losing interest and enjoyment in all, or almost all, activities, which you were interested and enjoyed before. Other 3 - 4 of more symptoms of the following should be present for MDD diagnosis according to DSM-5TR:
⭑ Significant weight loss when not dieting or weight gain (e.g., a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month), or decrease or increase in appetite.
⭑ Insomnia or hypersomnia.
⭑ Feeling either agitated and restless or slowed down in both movement and thinking, which is noticeable to others.
⭑ Fatigue or loss of energy.
⭑ Feeling worthless or overwhelmed by guilt. Sometimes these guilt feelings can even seem unreasonable or untrue, especially for others, who know you and your life well. This can feel more intense than just commonly blaming yourself for something you did or done or being sick.
⭑ Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness.
⭑ Recurrent thoughts of death which is not just fear of dying, recurrent suicidal thoughts
⭑ ICD-11 adds here the feeling of hopelessness, but DSM-5TR includes it in basic symptom “Depressed mood”.
These conditions should last most of the day, nearly every day for at least 2 weeks.
SEVERITY
How intense the symptoms you experience, and how much they affect your daily life, how long they last can vary greatly. If you experience milder depression, you might have a low mood but still be able to carry on with your daily life. But things may feel harder and less worthwhile. If you have more severe depression, you might find day-to-day life much more difficult. You may also experience suicidal feelings.
FAMOUS PEOPLE WITH DEPRESSION
Some public figures are open about their mental health, that helps us to understand that depression is not attached to social financial status and success in career or personal life.
⭑ Billie Eilish, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, has battled “debilitating depression” and an “impending-doom feeling” since early teens. Billie manages her depression through regular therapy, strong family support, and careful control over her schedule and public exposure. She’s had multiple relapses, especially around 2018 and 2023. Despite this, she became the youngest artist in history to win all four major Grammy categories in one night at age 18.
⭑ Cara Delevingne, model, actress, and LGBTQ+ activist, experienced severe depression as early as age 15, including suicidal thoughts and a breakdown. Medication and therapy helped stabilize her, though she had relapses in early 2020s tied to substance use. Now sober, she focuses on long-term wellness. Despite these challenges, she became one of the world’s highest-paid models and a lead actress in major films.
⭑ Lady Gaga, award-winning musician and actress, has endured severe depression, dissociation, and what she once described as a “psychotic break.” She manages her condition with medication, including antipsychotic olanzapine, intensive therapy, and structured routine. The episodes recur alongside chronic pain but are controlled now. Despite her mental health battles, she has won an Academy Award, 13 Grammys and created the Born This Way Foundation while championing mental-health awareness.
SELF ASSESSMENT
The United Refugees recommends Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for self assessment. If you have scored more than 11 on the depression scale, make an appointment with your general practitioner and bring the results of HADS. Together you will decide what to do next.
The world health organisation
Short video with basic information about depression
Video testimonial of Indian girl about her past depression
Other evidence based treatments for depression
Self-care for depression
For friends and family
is a malfunction in the human nervous system that indicates both or one of basic symptoms:1) having a depressed mood (e.g. depressed, feels sad, empty, hopeless, low mood, appears tearful, ets.) and 2) losing interest and enjoyment in all, or almost all, activities, which you were interested and enjoyed before. Other 3 - 4 of more symptoms of the following should be present for MDD diagnosis according to DSM-5TR:
⭑ Significant weight loss when not dieting or weight gain (e.g., a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month), or decrease or increase in appetite.
⭑ Insomnia or hypersomnia.
⭑ Feeling either agitated and restless or slowed down in both movement and thinking, which is noticeable to others.
⭑ Fatigue or loss of energy.
⭑ Feeling worthless or overwhelmed by guilt. Sometimes these guilt feelings can even seem unreasonable or untrue, especially for others, who know you and your life well. This can feel more intense than just commonly blaming yourself for something you did or done or being sick.
⭑ Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness.
⭑ Recurrent thoughts of death which is not just fear of dying, recurrent suicidal thoughts
⭑ ICD-11 adds here the feeling of hopelessness, but DSM-5TR includes it in basic symptom “Depressed mood”.
These conditions should last most of the day, nearly every day for at least 2 weeks.
SEVERITY
How intense the symptoms you experience, and how much they affect your daily life, how long they last can vary greatly. If you experience milder depression, you might have a low mood but still be able to carry on with your daily life. But things may feel harder and less worthwhile. If you have more severe depression, you might find day-to-day life much more difficult. You may also experience suicidal feelings.
FAMOUS PEOPLE WITH DEPRESSION
Some public figures are open about their mental health, that helps us to understand that depression is not attached to social financial status and success in career or personal life.
⭑ Billie Eilish, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, has battled “debilitating depression” and an “impending-doom feeling” since early teens. Billie manages her depression through regular therapy, strong family support, and careful control over her schedule and public exposure. She’s had multiple relapses, especially around 2018 and 2023. Despite this, she became the youngest artist in history to win all four major Grammy categories in one night at age 18.
⭑ Cara Delevingne, model, actress, and LGBTQ+ activist, experienced severe depression as early as age 15, including suicidal thoughts and a breakdown. Medication and therapy helped stabilize her, though she had relapses in early 2020s tied to substance use. Now sober, she focuses on long-term wellness. Despite these challenges, she became one of the world’s highest-paid models and a lead actress in major films.
⭑ Lady Gaga, award-winning musician and actress, has endured severe depression, dissociation, and what she once described as a “psychotic break.” She manages her condition with medication, including antipsychotic olanzapine, intensive therapy, and structured routine. The episodes recur alongside chronic pain but are controlled now. Despite her mental health battles, she has won an Academy Award, 13 Grammys and created the Born This Way Foundation while championing mental-health awareness.
SELF ASSESSMENT
The United Refugees recommends Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for self assessment. If you have scored more than 11 on the depression scale, make an appointment with your general practitioner and bring the results of HADS. Together you will decide what to do next.
The world health organisation
Short video with basic information about depression
Video testimonial of Indian girl about her past depression
Other evidence based treatments for depression
Self-care for depression
For friends and family
CAUSES OF MDD
Depression doesn't usually stem from a single cause. Instead, it's often the result of a mix of factors that can vary from person to person, sometimes even without an obvious trigger. According to the current scientific medical model, both environmental and biological factors contribute to all mental health disorders. Brain chemistry and regulation issues are part of the picture, but not the full story. Things like loneliness, financial hardship, poor housing or experiencing discrimination also contribute.Possible contributing factors include:
⭑ Childhood experiences. Difficult events like abuse, neglect, or loss can increase vulnerability later in life.
⭑ Life events. Things like bereavement, job loss, money worries, relationship problems, or big life changes can be triggering, especially when combined with low support.
⭑ Styles of thinking. Negative patterns, like self-blame or repetitive worrying, can boost the risk of depression too.
⭑ Other mental health issues. Conditions like anxiety often coexist and can worsen depression. For instance, Post traumatic stress disorder contains depressive symptoms itself.
⭑ Physical health problems. Chronic or serious illnesses (e.g., heart disease, thyroid issues, chronic pain) increase the likelihood of depression.
⭑ Family history and genetics. A family history of depression raises the risk, with genetics accounting for about 40% of the risk.
⭑ Medications. Some drugs (like beta-blockers, interferon, isotretinoin or hormonal treatments, ets.) can have depression as a side effect.
⭑ Recreational drugs and alcohol. Substance use, especially long-term, can both trigger and worsen depression.
⭑ Sleep, diet and exercise. Lack of sleep, poor nutrition, and inactivity disrupt mood regulation.
ANTIDEPRESSANTS FOR MDD
If you’ve tried other treatments but they haven’t helped, for moderate and severe depression, or depression accompanied by anxiety, PSTD and other mental disorders, or depression with intense feelings of self guilt, worthless, suicidal thoughts or behavior antidepressants are essential according to NICE guidelines. Antidepressants also most helpfulIf, if you’ve tried lifestyle or therapy approaches without success, when physical symptoms (pain, sleep problems) are severe and if you have had repeated episodes or a strong family history of depression.
If you don't have bipolar disorder, you will benefit from any type of antidepressants. The most popular group is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). In the European Union they can be prescribed by a psychiatrist or even your GP. They might offer medication as a treatment on its own. Or they might recommend taking medication as well as having talking therapy, do aerobic exercises (biking, swimming, running, ets.) or sunbathing or use 10 000 lumen lamps.
In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe aripiprazole or lithium alongside antidepressants. This is most likely if you have severe depression, or your depression keeps coming back. And it is usually when you have tried two types of antidepressants on their own at maximum bearable dosage and they aren't working.
MDD TREATMENT DURATION
Some people find an antidepressants helps right away, while others may need to try a few different options before finding what works best. You can talk to your doctor about the choices available and what might suit you. NICE guidelines recommend that you keep taking antidepressants for at least 6 months after an episode of depression ends. Some people following the advice of the psychiatrist may choose to stay on medication longer-term, especially if they've experienced multiple episodes of depression in the past. In these cases, continuing medication can help reduce the risk of future relapses.
ANTIDEPRESSANTS DISCONTINUATION
If you’re taking medication for depression, it’s important not to stop it suddenly. Stopping abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms that may be difficult to manage—and with some antidepressants, it can even be dangerous. If you’re thinking about coming off your medication:
⭑ Talk to the healthcare professional who prescribed it.
⭑ Come off gradually, over time, with medical guidance.
⭑ Understand the possible risks and how to reduce them safely.
Cooperating with your doctor ensures the process is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Depression doesn't usually stem from a single cause. Instead, it's often the result of a mix of factors that can vary from person to person, sometimes even without an obvious trigger. According to the current scientific medical model, both environmental and biological factors contribute to all mental health disorders. Brain chemistry and regulation issues are part of the picture, but not the full story. Things like loneliness, financial hardship, poor housing or experiencing discrimination also contribute.Possible contributing factors include:
⭑ Childhood experiences. Difficult events like abuse, neglect, or loss can increase vulnerability later in life.
⭑ Life events. Things like bereavement, job loss, money worries, relationship problems, or big life changes can be triggering, especially when combined with low support.
⭑ Styles of thinking. Negative patterns, like self-blame or repetitive worrying, can boost the risk of depression too.
⭑ Other mental health issues. Conditions like anxiety often coexist and can worsen depression. For instance, Post traumatic stress disorder contains depressive symptoms itself.
⭑ Physical health problems. Chronic or serious illnesses (e.g., heart disease, thyroid issues, chronic pain) increase the likelihood of depression.
⭑ Family history and genetics. A family history of depression raises the risk, with genetics accounting for about 40% of the risk.
⭑ Medications. Some drugs (like beta-blockers, interferon, isotretinoin or hormonal treatments, ets.) can have depression as a side effect.
⭑ Recreational drugs and alcohol. Substance use, especially long-term, can both trigger and worsen depression.
⭑ Sleep, diet and exercise. Lack of sleep, poor nutrition, and inactivity disrupt mood regulation.
ANTIDEPRESSANTS FOR MDD
If you’ve tried other treatments but they haven’t helped, for moderate and severe depression, or depression accompanied by anxiety, PSTD and other mental disorders, or depression with intense feelings of self guilt, worthless, suicidal thoughts or behavior antidepressants are essential according to NICE guidelines. Antidepressants also most helpfulIf, if you’ve tried lifestyle or therapy approaches without success, when physical symptoms (pain, sleep problems) are severe and if you have had repeated episodes or a strong family history of depression.
If you don't have bipolar disorder, you will benefit from any type of antidepressants. The most popular group is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). In the European Union they can be prescribed by a psychiatrist or even your GP. They might offer medication as a treatment on its own. Or they might recommend taking medication as well as having talking therapy, do aerobic exercises (biking, swimming, running, ets.) or sunbathing or use 10 000 lumen lamps.
In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe aripiprazole or lithium alongside antidepressants. This is most likely if you have severe depression, or your depression keeps coming back. And it is usually when you have tried two types of antidepressants on their own at maximum bearable dosage and they aren't working.
MDD TREATMENT DURATION
Some people find an antidepressants helps right away, while others may need to try a few different options before finding what works best. You can talk to your doctor about the choices available and what might suit you. NICE guidelines recommend that you keep taking antidepressants for at least 6 months after an episode of depression ends. Some people following the advice of the psychiatrist may choose to stay on medication longer-term, especially if they've experienced multiple episodes of depression in the past. In these cases, continuing medication can help reduce the risk of future relapses.
ANTIDEPRESSANTS DISCONTINUATION
If you’re taking medication for depression, it’s important not to stop it suddenly. Stopping abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms that may be difficult to manage—and with some antidepressants, it can even be dangerous. If you’re thinking about coming off your medication:
⭑ Talk to the healthcare professional who prescribed it.
⭑ Come off gradually, over time, with medical guidance.
⭑ Understand the possible risks and how to reduce them safely.
Cooperating with your doctor ensures the process is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Antidepressants Myths
While they have helped millions of people recover from depression, they’re surrounded by myths that often discourage patients from getting the help they need.
💬 Taking antidepressants means I’m weak. Needing help doesn’t make you weak, it makes you human. Depression is a real medical condition, not a sign of personal failure. Taking medication for depression is like taking insulin for diabetes or using a cast for a broken leg. It's a responsible step toward healing.
💬 Antidepressants don’t work for me. In fact, antidepressants have the strongest evidence base of effectiveness among all available treatments for moderate to severe depression. The key is understanding how treatment typically works and what to expect. Most people are first prescribed an SSRI, like sertraline or fluoxetine. If that particular medication doesn’t help, it’s not proof that all antidepressants are ineffective. According to modern clinical guidelines, the next step is to try another class of medication, for example, SNRIs (like venlafaxine or duloxetine), or medications like bupropion or mirtazapine. If two different antidepressants don’t bring improvement, the condition is usually classified as treatment-resistant depression. Even then, there are effective strategies available, such as combining two antidepressants, adding a small dose of an antipsychotic, or integrating psychotherapy. Other interventions like normalising healthy nutrition, sleep, exercises and light therapy can be attached.
💬 Antidepressants cause lots of side effects. Maybe you tried antidepressants and stopped early because of unbearable side effects. This is known as individual intolerance. Everyone’s nervous system and metabolism is different. Some people experience no issues with a certain drug, while others may feel so unwell they can’t tolerate it for even a few days. That doesn’t mean medication is not for you, it simply means that particular drug wasn’t a good match. The recommendation is to try at least two antidepressants before concluding that the whole class doesn’t work for you. You need to try two antidepressants that do not cause intolerable side effects, try taking two types of antidepressant together after that, or combine with an antipsychotic to say that antidepressants do not help you.
💬 Antidepressants change my personality. Antidepressants help lift the weight of depression, not change who you are. While a small number of people feel emotionally “flat” at first, this often improves with dose adjustment or switching medications. Most people feel more like themselves as their mood lifts.
💬 Antidepressants are addictive. Antidepressants do not cause cravings, highs, or loss of control like addictive substances. Some people experience withdrawal-like symptoms when stopping suddenly, such as dizziness or sleep problems. But these can be avoided with a gradual taper. This is not addiction, it’s temporary and manageable.
💬 Once I start, I wll be stuck on them forever. Many people take antidepressants for a limited time. For a first episode of depression, medication is usually continued for 6 to 12 months after you feel better. After that, many people successfully taper off with their doctor’s help. Long-term use is only recommended when there are multiple recurrences.
💬 Antidepressants work instantly. Antidepressants typically take 1 to 2 weeks to start working, and full effects are seen in 4 to 6 weeks. This delay is normal, so don’t lose hope if you don’t feel better right away. Early side effects may appear before the benefits do, but they often fade quickly.
💬 Everyone gains weight. Not everyone gains weight, and some antidepressants cause less weight gain than others. While modest weight gain is possible (typically 1–3 pounds), it’s not inevitable, and it varies by medication. Lifestyle habits and choosing the right antidepressant can help manage this.
💬 Antidepressants damage your brain. There is no evidence that antidepressants damage the brain.
In fact, untreated depression is associated with harmful effects on the brain, including shrinkage of key areas and inflammation. Some antidepressants may even help reverse these changes.
💬 Antidepressants make me lose my libido. Sexual side effects can happen, but they’re usually temporary, manageable, and reversible.Not everyone experiences problems with libido or erections, and the risk varies depending on the type of antidepressant. Some people may notice reduced sex drive or erectile difficulties, especially with certain SSRIs, but many others do not. Importantly, untreated depression itself can reduce libido and sexual function. As your mental health improves, your sex life often does too.
Source
💬 Taking antidepressants means I’m weak. Needing help doesn’t make you weak, it makes you human. Depression is a real medical condition, not a sign of personal failure. Taking medication for depression is like taking insulin for diabetes or using a cast for a broken leg. It's a responsible step toward healing.
💬 Antidepressants don’t work for me. In fact, antidepressants have the strongest evidence base of effectiveness among all available treatments for moderate to severe depression. The key is understanding how treatment typically works and what to expect. Most people are first prescribed an SSRI, like sertraline or fluoxetine. If that particular medication doesn’t help, it’s not proof that all antidepressants are ineffective. According to modern clinical guidelines, the next step is to try another class of medication, for example, SNRIs (like venlafaxine or duloxetine), or medications like bupropion or mirtazapine. If two different antidepressants don’t bring improvement, the condition is usually classified as treatment-resistant depression. Even then, there are effective strategies available, such as combining two antidepressants, adding a small dose of an antipsychotic, or integrating psychotherapy. Other interventions like normalising healthy nutrition, sleep, exercises and light therapy can be attached.
💬 Antidepressants cause lots of side effects. Maybe you tried antidepressants and stopped early because of unbearable side effects. This is known as individual intolerance. Everyone’s nervous system and metabolism is different. Some people experience no issues with a certain drug, while others may feel so unwell they can’t tolerate it for even a few days. That doesn’t mean medication is not for you, it simply means that particular drug wasn’t a good match. The recommendation is to try at least two antidepressants before concluding that the whole class doesn’t work for you. You need to try two antidepressants that do not cause intolerable side effects, try taking two types of antidepressant together after that, or combine with an antipsychotic to say that antidepressants do not help you.
💬 Antidepressants change my personality. Antidepressants help lift the weight of depression, not change who you are. While a small number of people feel emotionally “flat” at first, this often improves with dose adjustment or switching medications. Most people feel more like themselves as their mood lifts.
💬 Antidepressants are addictive. Antidepressants do not cause cravings, highs, or loss of control like addictive substances. Some people experience withdrawal-like symptoms when stopping suddenly, such as dizziness or sleep problems. But these can be avoided with a gradual taper. This is not addiction, it’s temporary and manageable.
💬 Once I start, I wll be stuck on them forever. Many people take antidepressants for a limited time. For a first episode of depression, medication is usually continued for 6 to 12 months after you feel better. After that, many people successfully taper off with their doctor’s help. Long-term use is only recommended when there are multiple recurrences.
💬 Antidepressants work instantly. Antidepressants typically take 1 to 2 weeks to start working, and full effects are seen in 4 to 6 weeks. This delay is normal, so don’t lose hope if you don’t feel better right away. Early side effects may appear before the benefits do, but they often fade quickly.
💬 Everyone gains weight. Not everyone gains weight, and some antidepressants cause less weight gain than others. While modest weight gain is possible (typically 1–3 pounds), it’s not inevitable, and it varies by medication. Lifestyle habits and choosing the right antidepressant can help manage this.
💬 Antidepressants damage your brain. There is no evidence that antidepressants damage the brain.
In fact, untreated depression is associated with harmful effects on the brain, including shrinkage of key areas and inflammation. Some antidepressants may even help reverse these changes.
💬 Antidepressants make me lose my libido. Sexual side effects can happen, but they’re usually temporary, manageable, and reversible.Not everyone experiences problems with libido or erections, and the risk varies depending on the type of antidepressant. Some people may notice reduced sex drive or erectile difficulties, especially with certain SSRIs, but many others do not. Importantly, untreated depression itself can reduce libido and sexual function. As your mental health improves, your sex life often does too.
Source
Autism Spectrum Disorder
AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) is a neurodiverse condition that shapes the way a person thinks and responds to the world around them. ICD-11 and DSM-5-TR recognizes ASC as a neurodevelopmental disorder, which indicates that genetic impact in this syndrome is great and symptoms start in infancy and preschool years. ASD begins before age 3. Some children show symptoms in the first 12 months, others after 24 months. According to the newest research and wide consensus of the professional bodies, autism is caused by approximately 80% of genetics and only 20%of environmental factors contribute to development for Autism spectrum disorder development. That is why autism can appear in several people from the same family. Autism is not caused by parenting styles or any vaccines. In the past, some people heard the term Asperger’s syndrome, but this term is no longer used. About 1–2% of people worldwide are on the autism spectrum. More boys and men receive a diagnosis than girls and women, but many girls and women are missed.
FAMOUS PEOPLE WITH ASD
Spectrum in the name of Autism Spectrum Disorder means it affects people in different ways. For example, Naoki Higashida, a non-speaking author from Japan, uses a letter board to communicate and wrote the bestselling book The Reason I Jump at age 13, offering deep insight into his inner world. Temple Grandin, an American professor of animal science, thinks in pictures and uses her visual mind to design humane systems for livestock handling, she often says her autism helped her see what others missed. In May 2023 Australian singer and songwriter Sia told Rob Has a Podcast: “I’m on the spectrum… only in the last two years have I become fully myself.” Sia shared that she masked her autism for decades and experiences sensory overload, but credits her intense focus and creative drive for much of her success. Greta Thunberg and Elon Musk live with ASP too and are open about it. During his Saturday Night Live monologue on 8 May 2021, Musk announced, “I’m the first person with Asperger’s to host SNL.” He has since discussed growing up with “literal thinking” and masking social cues at TED 2022 and other interviews. Greta Thunberg, known for climate-change advocacy, channels her laser-like focus and literal honesty into weekly protests and has led a global youth movement, not in spite of autism, but because of it.
ASD SYMPTOMS
Despite people with Autism being very different, something that unites them. Common experiences of a person living with autism is described below.
A. Ongoing difficulties with talking and connecting with other people in many situations. Back and forth communication is hard. For example, a person with autism may start a chat in an unusual way or give no reply. They may share less about their interests or feelings. They may find it hard to begin or answer in social moments. Body language is hard to use or understand. For instance, eye contact, gestures, or tone of voice may not match spoken words. A person with autism may not point or follow someone’s pointing or eye gaze. Facial expressions might be missing or look different. Building and keeping relationships is hard. For example, people with ASD may not change behaviour for different places, social roles. They may struggle with pretend play in childhood or making friends. They may show little interest in people of the same age.
B. Repeated actions, interests, or routines. Repeated movements, use of objects, or words: hand flapping, lining up toys, or echoing words. Many individuals with autism spectrum disorder learn to suppress repetitive behavior in public. In these individuals, repetitive behaviors like rocking or finger flicking may serve a self-soothing function and cope with anxiety. People with autism very often have a strong need for sameness. This can be greatly upset at small changes, need the same route or food, and set greeting rituals. Deep or narrow interests are the next trait of ASD: a very strong focus on unusual things or topics.Environmental activist Greta Thunberg has described her intense, lifelong focus on climate science as a “special interest” that drives her daily routine and keeps her campaigning even under pressure. Another example of intense interest is that some autistic children develop a deep knowledge of dinosaurs. They memorise scores of Latin species names and geological periods, because the clear categories and rich detail fit their learning style. One eight-year-old in a UK case study could recite entire passages from palaeontology textbooks and built social confidence by giving “dinosaur tours” to classmates. Person with autism can have unusual reactions to sounds, lights, touch, taste, or smell: feeling no pain, strong dislike of certain sounds or textures, or smelling or touching objects a lot.
FAMOUS PEOPLE WITH ASD
Spectrum in the name of Autism Spectrum Disorder means it affects people in different ways. For example, Naoki Higashida, a non-speaking author from Japan, uses a letter board to communicate and wrote the bestselling book The Reason I Jump at age 13, offering deep insight into his inner world. Temple Grandin, an American professor of animal science, thinks in pictures and uses her visual mind to design humane systems for livestock handling, she often says her autism helped her see what others missed. In May 2023 Australian singer and songwriter Sia told Rob Has a Podcast: “I’m on the spectrum… only in the last two years have I become fully myself.” Sia shared that she masked her autism for decades and experiences sensory overload, but credits her intense focus and creative drive for much of her success. Greta Thunberg and Elon Musk live with ASP too and are open about it. During his Saturday Night Live monologue on 8 May 2021, Musk announced, “I’m the first person with Asperger’s to host SNL.” He has since discussed growing up with “literal thinking” and masking social cues at TED 2022 and other interviews. Greta Thunberg, known for climate-change advocacy, channels her laser-like focus and literal honesty into weekly protests and has led a global youth movement, not in spite of autism, but because of it.
ASD SYMPTOMS
Despite people with Autism being very different, something that unites them. Common experiences of a person living with autism is described below.
A. Ongoing difficulties with talking and connecting with other people in many situations. Back and forth communication is hard. For example, a person with autism may start a chat in an unusual way or give no reply. They may share less about their interests or feelings. They may find it hard to begin or answer in social moments. Body language is hard to use or understand. For instance, eye contact, gestures, or tone of voice may not match spoken words. A person with autism may not point or follow someone’s pointing or eye gaze. Facial expressions might be missing or look different. Building and keeping relationships is hard. For example, people with ASD may not change behaviour for different places, social roles. They may struggle with pretend play in childhood or making friends. They may show little interest in people of the same age.
B. Repeated actions, interests, or routines. Repeated movements, use of objects, or words: hand flapping, lining up toys, or echoing words. Many individuals with autism spectrum disorder learn to suppress repetitive behavior in public. In these individuals, repetitive behaviors like rocking or finger flicking may serve a self-soothing function and cope with anxiety. People with autism very often have a strong need for sameness. This can be greatly upset at small changes, need the same route or food, and set greeting rituals. Deep or narrow interests are the next trait of ASD: a very strong focus on unusual things or topics.Environmental activist Greta Thunberg has described her intense, lifelong focus on climate science as a “special interest” that drives her daily routine and keeps her campaigning even under pressure. Another example of intense interest is that some autistic children develop a deep knowledge of dinosaurs. They memorise scores of Latin species names and geological periods, because the clear categories and rich detail fit their learning style. One eight-year-old in a UK case study could recite entire passages from palaeontology textbooks and built social confidence by giving “dinosaur tours” to classmates. Person with autism can have unusual reactions to sounds, lights, touch, taste, or smell: feeling no pain, strong dislike of certain sounds or textures, or smelling or touching objects a lot.
C. These signs showed up in early childhood, even if they became clearer later when social life became harder or the person learned to hide them. But why, if these signs appear so early, are lots of people being diagnosed only in adulthood? Common reasons for late diagnoses include lack of information about ASD, when these people were growing, unavailable health care or not developed mental health systems in some countries, subtler presentations in women and successful masking. When social life gets harder, in school years and further some people will learn to hide their autistic traits.
D. To get an official diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder described symptoms should make daily life at home, work, school, or\and with friends hard.
COMORBID CONDITIONS
Some people with autism also have language or thinking difficulties. Skills can be uneven: a person may be very strong in one area and need help in another. Movement differences like clumsiness or toe walking are common. Self injury or strong distress can happen, especially in children and teenagers. Autism is not a mental health issue, but a person with autism is more likely to experience mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. They may also have other conditions, like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, or learning difficulties such as dyslexia.
There are several social possible reasons for anxiety and depression:
⭑ Negative attitudes from other people. People who are not autistic may not understand or accept differences. A person with autism can face stigma, discrimination, trauma, and loneliness, all of which can harm mental health.
⭑ Differences in interacting with the world. Many places are designed without sensory, processing, or communication needs in mind. Public transport might be stressful, phone calls hard, and some forms confusing.
⭑ Misdiagnosis. Some experiences of autism look like symptoms of mental health problems. This confusion can lead to the wrong diagnosis, delay the right help, and increase stress and depression.
SUPPORT
It is important that people give a person with autism the support they need to live the life they choose. Some people need very little help; others may need regular support from a carer. Getting the right support for both autism and mental health can be difficult. It can take a long time to receive an autism diagnosis, especially as an adult. Mental health and social care services may not understand the best way to help. Services can avoid taking responsibility, and a person may be passed between teams. These barriers and misunderstandings can add to anxiety, low mood, and poor mental well-being. With understanding, acceptance, and the right support at the right time, a person living with autism can thrive and lead the life they want.
American Psychiatric Association
The World Health Organisation
National Library of Medicine about ASD
CDC about ASD
Magazine People About Greta Thunberg
D. To get an official diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder described symptoms should make daily life at home, work, school, or\and with friends hard.
COMORBID CONDITIONS
Some people with autism also have language or thinking difficulties. Skills can be uneven: a person may be very strong in one area and need help in another. Movement differences like clumsiness or toe walking are common. Self injury or strong distress can happen, especially in children and teenagers. Autism is not a mental health issue, but a person with autism is more likely to experience mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. They may also have other conditions, like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, or learning difficulties such as dyslexia.
There are several social possible reasons for anxiety and depression:
⭑ Negative attitudes from other people. People who are not autistic may not understand or accept differences. A person with autism can face stigma, discrimination, trauma, and loneliness, all of which can harm mental health.
⭑ Differences in interacting with the world. Many places are designed without sensory, processing, or communication needs in mind. Public transport might be stressful, phone calls hard, and some forms confusing.
⭑ Misdiagnosis. Some experiences of autism look like symptoms of mental health problems. This confusion can lead to the wrong diagnosis, delay the right help, and increase stress and depression.
SUPPORT
It is important that people give a person with autism the support they need to live the life they choose. Some people need very little help; others may need regular support from a carer. Getting the right support for both autism and mental health can be difficult. It can take a long time to receive an autism diagnosis, especially as an adult. Mental health and social care services may not understand the best way to help. Services can avoid taking responsibility, and a person may be passed between teams. These barriers and misunderstandings can add to anxiety, low mood, and poor mental well-being. With understanding, acceptance, and the right support at the right time, a person living with autism can thrive and lead the life they want.
American Psychiatric Association
The World Health Organisation
National Library of Medicine about ASD
CDC about ASD
Magazine People About Greta Thunberg
ACCEPT YOURSELF
ACCEPT OTHERS
Financial Literasity
WHY FINANCIAL LITERACY
When you arrive in a new country, financial systems work differently than what you might be used to. From local tax structures and social benefits to credit checks, utility contracts, and monthly subscriptions. Gainful financial literacy isn’t about complex economic theories, it is a practical toolkit designed to give you clarity, stability, and peace of mind in your personal finances. Understanding them is one of the most effective ways to regain control over your life or build a secure foundation for a family.
We suggest every refugee to go through a financial literacy course in the Netherlands. They are available for free and organised by municipalities or non-commercial organisations. Ask buurtteam\wijkteam and Vluchtelingenwerk in your region for such a course. You can also find online options, which are convenient if you have an intense schedule. But they require a profound level of self-discipline. The United Refugees highly recommend reading the book Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter.
Financial Literacy Basics
Understanding Needs vs Wants
Fixed, Variable, & Periodic Expenses
Budget Breakdown
Spend less than you earn
Cut Expenses
Investing
When you arrive in a new country, financial systems work differently than what you might be used to. From local tax structures and social benefits to credit checks, utility contracts, and monthly subscriptions. Gainful financial literacy isn’t about complex economic theories, it is a practical toolkit designed to give you clarity, stability, and peace of mind in your personal finances. Understanding them is one of the most effective ways to regain control over your life or build a secure foundation for a family.
We suggest every refugee to go through a financial literacy course in the Netherlands. They are available for free and organised by municipalities or non-commercial organisations. Ask buurtteam\wijkteam and Vluchtelingenwerk in your region for such a course. You can also find online options, which are convenient if you have an intense schedule. But they require a profound level of self-discipline. The United Refugees highly recommend reading the book Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter.
Financial Literacy Basics
Understanding Needs vs Wants
Fixed, Variable, & Periodic Expenses
Budget Breakdown
Spend less than you earn
Cut Expenses
Investing
COURSES CONTENT
The most powerful step in financial management is creating a clear, realistic personal budget. A budget isn't about restricting your living, it's about knowing your exact numbers.
By tracking your non-negotiable living costs, like rent, food, insurance, utilities, and transit, a personal budget allows you to determine your absolute minimum required income to live completely debt-free. Once you know this exact figure, your job search transforms. You now have a clear threshold for the minimum salary you need to accept, preventing you from slipping into a debt spiral.
A good course contains the following basics:
⭑ Tracking every expense for a month. You write down every euro spent. Seeing where your money goes highlights areas where small adjustments can lead to immediate savings.
⭑ Calculating personal monthly budget. You list fixed, variable, and periodic expenses in categories. Fixed and variable costs show monthly payments you must make. This total is your baseline expense. You check if you spend less than you earn. It means that you don't generate debt.
⭑ Building a micro-emergency buffer. Even setting aside 10% a month of your income builds a psychological and practical buffer for unexpected expenses.
⭑ Learning subsidies & benefits. The Netherlands offer financial support during integration, healthcare or rent allowances, unemployment benefits, etc.
⭑ Learning taxes and declarations. It is about understanding local tax obligations, filing annual declarations correctly and on time, and checking eligibility for tax credits or refunds.
⭑ Mastering liabilities management. In this block you receive knowledge about eligibility for municipal and commercial banks credits, keeping track of debts, paying obligations on time, and creating a realistic repayment plan to avoid additional interest and financial stress.
Free online financial literacy course in Dutch
Benefits calculation tool
Nibud Personal Budget Advice Tool
Free consultations about finances
Basic information about finances
Detailed information about finances
Dutch households Reports
Financial literacy course in Amsterdam
Debt assistance in Amsterdam
The most powerful step in financial management is creating a clear, realistic personal budget. A budget isn't about restricting your living, it's about knowing your exact numbers.
By tracking your non-negotiable living costs, like rent, food, insurance, utilities, and transit, a personal budget allows you to determine your absolute minimum required income to live completely debt-free. Once you know this exact figure, your job search transforms. You now have a clear threshold for the minimum salary you need to accept, preventing you from slipping into a debt spiral.
A good course contains the following basics:
⭑ Tracking every expense for a month. You write down every euro spent. Seeing where your money goes highlights areas where small adjustments can lead to immediate savings.
⭑ Calculating personal monthly budget. You list fixed, variable, and periodic expenses in categories. Fixed and variable costs show monthly payments you must make. This total is your baseline expense. You check if you spend less than you earn. It means that you don't generate debt.
⭑ Building a micro-emergency buffer. Even setting aside 10% a month of your income builds a psychological and practical buffer for unexpected expenses.
⭑ Learning subsidies & benefits. The Netherlands offer financial support during integration, healthcare or rent allowances, unemployment benefits, etc.
⭑ Learning taxes and declarations. It is about understanding local tax obligations, filing annual declarations correctly and on time, and checking eligibility for tax credits or refunds.
⭑ Mastering liabilities management. In this block you receive knowledge about eligibility for municipal and commercial banks credits, keeping track of debts, paying obligations on time, and creating a realistic repayment plan to avoid additional interest and financial stress.
Free online financial literacy course in Dutch
Benefits calculation tool
Nibud Personal Budget Advice Tool
Free consultations about finances
Basic information about finances
Detailed information about finances
Dutch households Reports
Financial literacy course in Amsterdam
Debt assistance in Amsterdam
Career Path
Mandatory Dutch Civil Integration for refugees begins after you receive housing. There is an option to start integration earlier when you receive a residence permit. In this case, your COA case manager helps you.
However, refugees can use the waiting time for the second interview with IND wisely to build their own future. In this article, The United Refugees gives some advice on how to do it. And the first one is to start learning Dutch as soon as possible. Some options are described in the Dutch article on this site.
It is important for living a satisfying life to define what would you like to be engaged in professionally. This choice should be based on your values and abilities. Values are things that are important to you, and abilities are developing from childhood if you have some skills training in the arias you are predisposed. For example, some people find it easier to work with mathematics, while others excel with text, images, or hands-on activities. These are referred to as abilities.
CRITERIA FOR MATCHING PROFESSION
Some useful guidance for finding a matching profession can be the following.
⭑ is something you are good at;
⭑ brings pleasure and satisfaction;
⭑ helps others, or at least does not harm them;
⭑ brings you money.
A business that meets any criteria, except creating your income, is called a hobby.
CATEGORIES OF INCOME
⭑ Employee. You work for a company. You have a boss, typically work five days a week for 8 hours, and receive a monthly salary.
⭑ Self-employed. You are your own boss. Income comes from your customers, whom you search for yourself.
⭑ Business owner. You have created a company that produces products or provides services. You are the boss of other people. You hire them and pay them salaries.
⭑ Investor. You have inherited capital or saved money, which you can invest, for example, in stocks and bonds, to generate passive income.
TRACK 1. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
The United Refugees has some guidelines for you based on your situation and intentions. This track is for you if you agree with any of the following statements.
⭑ I do not have the education or sufficient experience in the profession that I want to pursue.
⭑ I have education or experience in the profession, but I want to switch to a new one and undergo retraining.
However, refugees can use the waiting time for the second interview with IND wisely to build their own future. In this article, The United Refugees gives some advice on how to do it. And the first one is to start learning Dutch as soon as possible. Some options are described in the Dutch article on this site.
It is important for living a satisfying life to define what would you like to be engaged in professionally. This choice should be based on your values and abilities. Values are things that are important to you, and abilities are developing from childhood if you have some skills training in the arias you are predisposed. For example, some people find it easier to work with mathematics, while others excel with text, images, or hands-on activities. These are referred to as abilities.
CRITERIA FOR MATCHING PROFESSION
Some useful guidance for finding a matching profession can be the following.
⭑ is something you are good at;
⭑ brings pleasure and satisfaction;
⭑ helps others, or at least does not harm them;
⭑ brings you money.
A business that meets any criteria, except creating your income, is called a hobby.
CATEGORIES OF INCOME
⭑ Employee. You work for a company. You have a boss, typically work five days a week for 8 hours, and receive a monthly salary.
⭑ Self-employed. You are your own boss. Income comes from your customers, whom you search for yourself.
⭑ Business owner. You have created a company that produces products or provides services. You are the boss of other people. You hire them and pay them salaries.
⭑ Investor. You have inherited capital or saved money, which you can invest, for example, in stocks and bonds, to generate passive income.
TRACK 1. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
The United Refugees has some guidelines for you based on your situation and intentions. This track is for you if you agree with any of the following statements.
⭑ I do not have the education or sufficient experience in the profession that I want to pursue.
⭑ I have education or experience in the profession, but I want to switch to a new one and undergo retraining.
1) Choosing the profession. The following helps you decide on your future profession.
⭑ Use of online psychological tests of career guidance.
⭑ Consulting with a psychologist or reliable experience career coach who is trained in occupational psychology.
⭑ Engaging a career coach.
⭑ Reading books on the topic of choosing a profession.
⭑ Reading articles in specialised magazines and websites about profession that interest you.
⭑ Conversing with professionals in the fields that attract you.
⭑ Study of labor market statistics, average, minimum, and maximum wages for your desirable profession in the Netherlands.
⭑ Analyse job advertisements to study the responsibilities and types of organisations and economic sectors in which the specialists, you desire to be, work.
2) Practical Trial. Volunteer work or online courses may be suitable for this. Once you have made a short list of professions, you can try out what you like in practice. Your ideas about work are one thing, practical experience in performing duties and interacting with people is another. It may seem difficult if you don't have enough knowledge and skills. It is important to listen to yourself and understand whether your heart lies in this profession.
3) Education. You may be surprised, but during the asylum procedure or even after receiving a negative decision, you can start learning. There are several options you can consider.
⭑ Higher education possibilities and preparatory courses for it.
⭑ Enterprise-based educational programs are good for employees.
⭑ Business incubator for self-employed and business owners.
4) Internship. This is a way to gain practical skills, create a network, and find a potential employer.
In the articles on this site, called Education for asylum seekers & status holders and Education for status holders more information can be found.
TRACK 2. READY FOR WORK
This track is for you if you agree with any of the following statements.
⭑ I don't have any education or sufficient work experience, but I want to start working and making money as quickly as possible. I agree to work as a low-skilled worker.
⭑ I have education and/or experience in a profession in my home country and I want to continue working in this profession. To find a suitable work you have to wait till you receive a residence permit. In meantime learn Dutch. It is mostly impossible to find good payed work without Dutch or you choice will be severely limited.
There are several options you can consider.
⭑ Start enterprise-based educational programs for adaptation to new work environments and making your career in a defined organisation. In the article on this site, called Education for asylum seekers & status holders more information can be found.
⭑ Search work on International or Dutch job search sites, when you receive a residency permit;
⭑ Asylum seekers can ask RefugeeConnect for assistance in finding low-skilled work.
The list of job search engines and information about contributions to COA for workers can be found in the Job article on this site.
⭑ Use of online psychological tests of career guidance.
⭑ Consulting with a psychologist or reliable experience career coach who is trained in occupational psychology.
⭑ Engaging a career coach.
⭑ Reading books on the topic of choosing a profession.
⭑ Reading articles in specialised magazines and websites about profession that interest you.
⭑ Conversing with professionals in the fields that attract you.
⭑ Study of labor market statistics, average, minimum, and maximum wages for your desirable profession in the Netherlands.
⭑ Analyse job advertisements to study the responsibilities and types of organisations and economic sectors in which the specialists, you desire to be, work.
2) Practical Trial. Volunteer work or online courses may be suitable for this. Once you have made a short list of professions, you can try out what you like in practice. Your ideas about work are one thing, practical experience in performing duties and interacting with people is another. It may seem difficult if you don't have enough knowledge and skills. It is important to listen to yourself and understand whether your heart lies in this profession.
3) Education. You may be surprised, but during the asylum procedure or even after receiving a negative decision, you can start learning. There are several options you can consider.
⭑ Higher education possibilities and preparatory courses for it.
⭑ Enterprise-based educational programs are good for employees.
⭑ Business incubator for self-employed and business owners.
4) Internship. This is a way to gain practical skills, create a network, and find a potential employer.
In the articles on this site, called Education for asylum seekers & status holders and Education for status holders more information can be found.
TRACK 2. READY FOR WORK
This track is for you if you agree with any of the following statements.
⭑ I don't have any education or sufficient work experience, but I want to start working and making money as quickly as possible. I agree to work as a low-skilled worker.
⭑ I have education and/or experience in a profession in my home country and I want to continue working in this profession. To find a suitable work you have to wait till you receive a residence permit. In meantime learn Dutch. It is mostly impossible to find good payed work without Dutch or you choice will be severely limited.
There are several options you can consider.
⭑ Start enterprise-based educational programs for adaptation to new work environments and making your career in a defined organisation. In the article on this site, called Education for asylum seekers & status holders more information can be found.
⭑ Search work on International or Dutch job search sites, when you receive a residency permit;
⭑ Asylum seekers can ask RefugeeConnect for assistance in finding low-skilled work.
The list of job search engines and information about contributions to COA for workers can be found in the Job article on this site.
Education for
asylum seekers & status holders
HIGHER EDUCATION: UNIVERSITY
The following universities have special programs for refugees, and they offer part of their regular courses within them. The courses are free of charge and don't require residence permits. It can be an introduction to apply for a complete bachelor's or master’s program later on. Apart from the courses, once you are registered in most of them you’ll join a buddy program, access to the library and the possibility of borrowing a laptop.
The following universities have special programs for refugees, and they offer part of their regular courses within them. The courses are free of charge and don't require residence permits. It can be an introduction to apply for a complete bachelor's or master’s program later on. Apart from the courses, once you are registered in most of them you’ll join a buddy program, access to the library and the possibility of borrowing a laptop.
Eindhoven University of Technology: tuenable@tue.nl
Wageningen University&Research: wurth.while@wur.nl
University of Leiden: inclusionstudents@sea.leidenuniv.nl
Utrecht University: incluusion@uu.nl
Radboud University: radboudwelcomesnewcomers@ru.nl
THE UNIVERSITY OF UTRECHT: TRAINEESHIP
At the University of Utrecht in particular, after finalising the course, if you have a B1/B2 level of Dutch and you are a status holder, you can opt for the Incluusion Traineeship for refugees. The traineeship is done in different departments of the Utrecht University. The traineeship develops the trainees' skills in their field of work, increases their experience in the Dutch labour market, and is an opportunity to expand their network to obtain a paid employment contract after the traineeship.
EDU4U
Edu4U courses are quite unique as they offer weekend classes in different native languages, during the weekends in Amsterdam. They offer courses in Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science ICT, Architecture, Chemistry, Biology, Economy, Administration bookkeeping, ONA (Orientation on the labour market), English and Dutch. Their objective is to prepare their students for the exams of the Central Commission for Preliminary Exams (CCVX) that give them access to college or complete university programs.
At the University of Utrecht in particular, after finalising the course, if you have a B1/B2 level of Dutch and you are a status holder, you can opt for the Incluusion Traineeship for refugees. The traineeship is done in different departments of the Utrecht University. The traineeship develops the trainees' skills in their field of work, increases their experience in the Dutch labour market, and is an opportunity to expand their network to obtain a paid employment contract after the traineeship.
EDU4U
Edu4U courses are quite unique as they offer weekend classes in different native languages, during the weekends in Amsterdam. They offer courses in Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science ICT, Architecture, Chemistry, Biology, Economy, Administration bookkeeping, ONA (Orientation on the labour market), English and Dutch. Their objective is to prepare their students for the exams of the Central Commission for Preliminary Exams (CCVX) that give them access to college or complete university programs.
ENTERPRISE-BASED EDUCATION PROGRAMS
If you are looking for something more hands-on and ready to work, you can take a look at these initiatives. They offer free tuition and the possibility of working straight away after the training due to the high demand for these abilities and their contact with enterprises.
Cyberworkplace
Cyberworkplace is a tuition-free initiative that provides cybersecurity training to develop their student's skills as ethical hackers. Besides, they try to match their students to leading (IT) security companies and organizations for internships.
Blue Road Academy
If you are interested in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, Blue Road Academy is definitely for you. A training free of charge that seeks to promote the careers of newcomers with Salesforce training, professional development, and direct connections with top employers.
If you are looking for something more hands-on and ready to work, you can take a look at these initiatives. They offer free tuition and the possibility of working straight away after the training due to the high demand for these abilities and their contact with enterprises.
Cyberworkplace
Cyberworkplace is a tuition-free initiative that provides cybersecurity training to develop their student's skills as ethical hackers. Besides, they try to match their students to leading (IT) security companies and organizations for internships.
Blue Road Academy
If you are interested in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, Blue Road Academy is definitely for you. A training free of charge that seeks to promote the careers of newcomers with Salesforce training, professional development, and direct connections with top employers.
Hack Your Future
Do you prefer coding perhaps? Take a look at Hack Your Future. An open-source coding school for people with limited access to education. The training is free of charge and no technical background is required. Their free seven-month program begins every two months. Most of their education is online and they even provide you with a laptop if you need one.
BUSINESS INCUBATORS
Forward Inc offers training, support, and networking for refugees, who prefer to run their own company or work as freelancers. Newcomers can be enrolled in all Forward Inc's programs without a residence permit, or BSN number. Education is free of charge for the DEP program. For further programs, you don't need to pay in advance and are obligated to pay only if your startup succeeds.
Do you prefer coding perhaps? Take a look at Hack Your Future. An open-source coding school for people with limited access to education. The training is free of charge and no technical background is required. Their free seven-month program begins every two months. Most of their education is online and they even provide you with a laptop if you need one.
BUSINESS INCUBATORS
Forward Inc offers training, support, and networking for refugees, who prefer to run their own company or work as freelancers. Newcomers can be enrolled in all Forward Inc's programs without a residence permit, or BSN number. Education is free of charge for the DEP program. For further programs, you don't need to pay in advance and are obligated to pay only if your startup succeeds.
Written in collaboration with Gracia Alcaide.
Education for status holders
In The Netherlands for many occupations, you are only considered if you have obtained specific diplomas. After the positive decision if you won’t have work and will apply for a benefit, you can be obliged to obtain a diploma until the age of 27.
If you have obtained a diploma in your country of origin, you can have it evaluated by International Credential Evaluation (IDW). On the basis of this evaluation, the educational institutes determine whether your previous education is sufficient and whether you may even be granted an exemption for all or part of the course.
More about education.
Startup incubators and accelerators in Amsterdam.
Dutch Foundation for Refugee Students.
If you have obtained a diploma in your country of origin, you can have it evaluated by International Credential Evaluation (IDW). On the basis of this evaluation, the educational institutes determine whether your previous education is sufficient and whether you may even be granted an exemption for all or part of the course.
More about education.
Startup incubators and accelerators in Amsterdam.
Dutch Foundation for Refugee Students.
SUBSIDIES FOR STUDY
If you are between 18 and 30 years of age, after receiving asylum residence permit, you can usually apply for a study costs allowance (for secondary school or mbo) or study finance (for mbo, hbo, and university) at Education Executive Agency (DUO). The study finance is partially a gift and partially a loan you have to pay back after your study; the study costs allowance is partially a gift.
When you are older than 30 years and younger than 55 years of age, you can borrow money at DUO for tuition fees or school fees on certain conditions. See DUO.
Will you be studying? What qualification will it be? What university? So there are a lot of things to think about and investigate. You can start to prepare yourself while in the asylum procedure.
If you are between 18 and 30 years of age, after receiving asylum residence permit, you can usually apply for a study costs allowance (for secondary school or mbo) or study finance (for mbo, hbo, and university) at Education Executive Agency (DUO). The study finance is partially a gift and partially a loan you have to pay back after your study; the study costs allowance is partially a gift.
When you are older than 30 years and younger than 55 years of age, you can borrow money at DUO for tuition fees or school fees on certain conditions. See DUO.
Will you be studying? What qualification will it be? What university? So there are a lot of things to think about and investigate. You can start to prepare yourself while in the asylum procedure.
Volunteer work
What is volunteer work? It should meet the following criteria:
⭑ An organization, which provides volunteer work is not a commercial one.
⭑ Volunteer work is useful for society.
⭑ It is unpaid work or work with volunteer compensation.
Asylum seekers are allowed to engage in volunteer activities. TWV, a work permit, is not required for this. The organization, which provides voluntary work for asylum seekers must have permission from UWV. For status holders, such permission for the organization from UWV is not required.
If you receive an allowance and are volunteering, then your allowance will not change if the compensation for volunteer's work in 2023 does not exceed 190 € per month and 1900 € per year.
⭑ An organization, which provides volunteer work is not a commercial one.
⭑ Volunteer work is useful for society.
⭑ It is unpaid work or work with volunteer compensation.
Asylum seekers are allowed to engage in volunteer activities. TWV, a work permit, is not required for this. The organization, which provides voluntary work for asylum seekers must have permission from UWV. For status holders, such permission for the organization from UWV is not required.
If you receive an allowance and are volunteering, then your allowance will not change if the compensation for volunteer's work in 2023 does not exceed 190 € per month and 1900 € per year.
Job
In 2023, the court overturned the rule that an asylum seeker can work no more than 24 weeks a year. Employers must have a work permit for third-country nationals (TWV) to employ asylum seekers. The Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) will issue this permit if an asylum application process has lasted at least 6 months. You need a BSN-number and Dutch bank account to work.
Some jobs require a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG). The application for VOG is usually submitted by the employer, or he asks you to do it yourself.
Asylum seekers who have their own income or funds can still make use of COA reception. In that case, they have to pay a contribution to the reception costs. COA can withhold 25% of income, but not more than 246.00 euros per month.
Labor rights
Werkvergunning
Personal contribution scheme for asylum seekers with income and assets
New Dutch Connections Project
Some jobs require a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG). The application for VOG is usually submitted by the employer, or he asks you to do it yourself.
Asylum seekers who have their own income or funds can still make use of COA reception. In that case, they have to pay a contribution to the reception costs. COA can withhold 25% of income, but not more than 246.00 euros per month.
Labor rights
Werkvergunning
Personal contribution scheme for asylum seekers with income and assets
New Dutch Connections Project
HOW TO SEARCH FOR WORK
RefugeeConnect is an organisation, who help potential employees, who are still asylum seekers, towards the right match, advice in the field of laws and regulations and facilitation in practical challenges.
⭑ LinkedIn
More from COA
More from VWN
RefugeeConnect is an organisation, who help potential employees, who are still asylum seekers, towards the right match, advice in the field of laws and regulations and facilitation in practical challenges.
The following international job search sites:
⭑ Indeed
⭑ Job search site for scientists
Dutch job search sites:
⭑ Werk.nl
⭑ Adzuna
More from COA
More from VWN
Hosting Scheme
After receiving a residence permit refugees can live outside AZC with a host family, friends, or relatives while waiting for housing. Refugees are eligible to live outside of the municipality of the AZC. School-going children must be able to continue following lessons. The time frame for staying with a host is from 21 days to 3 months. This period can be extended in consultation.
Weekly allowance and health insurance are remained as well as a duty for stamping, which can be done by phone or in person. Only the right to a place in AZC lapses. The additional fee for status holders aged 21 years are provided.
Newcomer has to temporarily register with the municipality at the address of a host within 5 days after moving to the host. This registration may have consequences for any social assistance benefits and/or other benefits the host receives.
Newcomer has to register with the host’s general practitioner temporarily. If a refugee is going to return from the housing of the host back to AZC, COA should be notified at least two weeks in advance. A newcomer may be assigned to a different camp than the one they left for the host.
Hosting scheme on COA site.
CONDITIONS FOR REFUGEES
⭑ 18 years or over
⭑ speak English or some Dutch
⭑ have a citizen service number (BSN)
⭑ have had a permit holder interview with the COA and waits for a home in the municipality
⭑ don’t receive intensive medical treatment
SEARCHING A HOST
If you move to your friend or a family member, you don't have The TakecareBnB being involved in the Hosting Scheme. If you have nobody to stay with outside AZC TakecareBnB helps you to mach a host. First, you should fill an application form on their site. Matching you with a host takes time. Tips about finding a host family in Nijmegen are described here.
DOCUMENTS
1. Lodger Contract (Logeerovereenkomst) between a refugee and COA. A program manager at COA or a Takecarebnb matcher provides the template.
2. Logeerregeling informatiebrievenbundel. Sometimes COA asks a host to sign an information letter, where consequences for the social allowance of the host, etc. are described.
3. The list of Documents for the Report of a Change of Refugees Address can be found at a host municipality site or it can be done through DigiD without signing additional papers.
4. If TakecareBnB Involved > Matching Agreement (Matchingsovereenkomst) between Takecarebnb, a host, and a refugee. A Takecarebnb matcher provides the template.
5. If TakecareBnB Involved > Certificate of Conduct (Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag, VOG) for a host. The link will be provided by Takecarebnb.
Weekly allowance and health insurance are remained as well as a duty for stamping, which can be done by phone or in person. Only the right to a place in AZC lapses. The additional fee for status holders aged 21 years are provided.
Newcomer has to temporarily register with the municipality at the address of a host within 5 days after moving to the host. This registration may have consequences for any social assistance benefits and/or other benefits the host receives.
Newcomer has to register with the host’s general practitioner temporarily. If a refugee is going to return from the housing of the host back to AZC, COA should be notified at least two weeks in advance. A newcomer may be assigned to a different camp than the one they left for the host.
Hosting scheme on COA site.
CONDITIONS FOR REFUGEES
⭑ 18 years or over
⭑ speak English or some Dutch
⭑ have a citizen service number (BSN)
⭑ have had a permit holder interview with the COA and waits for a home in the municipality
⭑ don’t receive intensive medical treatment
SEARCHING A HOST
If you move to your friend or a family member, you don't have The TakecareBnB being involved in the Hosting Scheme. If you have nobody to stay with outside AZC TakecareBnB helps you to mach a host. First, you should fill an application form on their site. Matching you with a host takes time. Tips about finding a host family in Nijmegen are described here.
DOCUMENTS
1. Lodger Contract (Logeerovereenkomst) between a refugee and COA. A program manager at COA or a Takecarebnb matcher provides the template.
2. Logeerregeling informatiebrievenbundel. Sometimes COA asks a host to sign an information letter, where consequences for the social allowance of the host, etc. are described.
3. The list of Documents for the Report of a Change of Refugees Address can be found at a host municipality site or it can be done through DigiD without signing additional papers.
4. If TakecareBnB Involved > Matching Agreement (Matchingsovereenkomst) between Takecarebnb, a host, and a refugee. A Takecarebnb matcher provides the template.
5. If TakecareBnB Involved > Certificate of Conduct (Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag, VOG) for a host. The link will be provided by Takecarebnb.
PROCEDURE INVOLVING TAKECAREBNB
TIPS & TRICKS
⭑ If you inform the municipality more than 5 days after moving, the date on which you inform the municipality will be treated as the moving date. Municipalities can impose a fine of up to €325 if you do not inform them in time of important changes to your personal information.
⭑ Online reporting of a change of address by DigiD is the easiest way to do this. Another opportunity is to send a letter with all papers to the municipality by post. The registration period can be for several weeks after they receive information from you. In some municipalities, you can make an appointment to report in person.
⭑ There is an administrative fine of up to € 325, which is based on article 4.17b of the Basic Registration of Persons Act in following situations: 1) if the person(s) no longer live at host’s address and that person(s) failed to register a change of address and a host failed to notify the municipality about that on time; 2) if a host intentionally give anyone permission to register at their address while this person is not living there.
PITFALLS
Apply for a DigiD before starting to sign Logeerovereenkomst with COA.
- If TakecareBnB Involved > Registration on Takecarebnb site.
- If TakecareBnB Involved > Matchmaker. If there is a suitable host family, the matchmaker will contact you for an intake.
- If TakecareBnB Involved > Intake. This conversation is meant to inform about the process and get an overall impression of a refugee as a person.
- If TakecareBnB Involved > Matching. Meeting to get to know the host family is the next step. The matchmaker will attend this conversation.
- If TakecareBnB Involved > Test stay. If the meeting goes well and there is a click between a guest and a host, an appointment will be made to come and stay for a weekend on a trial basis. Only if that weekend goes well together, a three-month stay period starts.
- If TakecareBnB Involved > Matching Agreement (Matchingsovereenkomst). Takecarebnb, a host, and a refugee sign a three-party agreement.
- Lodger contract with COA (Logeerovereenkomst). To speed up the process, it is recommended to contact programmabegeleider before the trial stay and to schedule an appointment for after the trial stay to initiate the logeerregeling.
- Report of a Change of Address. A refugee has to temporarily register at the host’s address. Reporting can be done in 4 weeks before the move of 5 days after. There can be a fine for violating the deadline. Some municipalities allow reporting for a change of address in advance. Read carefully the requirements of a host municipality site for reporting. The moving date that you provide will be treated as the day on which your address changed.
- Board and lodging. Takecarebnb mediates in hospitality and not in tenants. They emphasize that guests do not pay rent. Still, it is important to discuss with each other which possibilities there are to contribute. Some host families say it is fine to cook and buy groceries for them once a week or contribute in another way. Now that energy costs are high, it is important to make agreements about this. A contribution does not have to be financial.
- Registration with the general practitioner of the host family. The host should negotiate with their general practitioner (GP) to register a refugee at their practice. COA provide refugee the instruction, which you have to show your new GP. Because you can return to the AZC, GZA prefers to remain the manager of the medical file, but it can be not convenient for the GP. This is an instruction on how to transfer your medical file to a new general practitioner, if they ask you to do it.
TIPS & TRICKS
⭑ If you inform the municipality more than 5 days after moving, the date on which you inform the municipality will be treated as the moving date. Municipalities can impose a fine of up to €325 if you do not inform them in time of important changes to your personal information.
⭑ Online reporting of a change of address by DigiD is the easiest way to do this. Another opportunity is to send a letter with all papers to the municipality by post. The registration period can be for several weeks after they receive information from you. In some municipalities, you can make an appointment to report in person.
⭑ There is an administrative fine of up to € 325, which is based on article 4.17b of the Basic Registration of Persons Act in following situations: 1) if the person(s) no longer live at host’s address and that person(s) failed to register a change of address and a host failed to notify the municipality about that on time; 2) if a host intentionally give anyone permission to register at their address while this person is not living there.
PITFALLS
Apply for a DigiD before starting to sign Logeerovereenkomst with COA.
Dutch Сivil Integration
The civil integration requirement does not apply to citizens of European Union countries, Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Turkey. Except for some other groups, foreign permanent residents of the Netherlands have an obligation for civil integration. Dutch Civil Integration aimed to help refugees with language learning and professional adaptation to a new society.
In this article integration due to Civil Integration Law 2022 is described. The old Civil Integration Law 2013 continues to apply to people who were already subject to the civil integration requirement before 1 January 2022.
THEE INTEGRATION ROUTS
⭑ The B1 route is for newcomers, who are going to learn the Dutch language at the B1. At the same time, they can participate through voluntary or paid work.
⭑ The Onderwijs route. This education route is mainly for young people who are in the Netherlands attending tertiary education. They learn the Dutch language at level B1 or higher.
⭑ The zelfredzaamheidsroute route. The self-reliance route is for newcomers, who can learn the Dutch language only at the A1 level. This route prepares them in a more straightforward manner to participate in Dutch society.
BREDE INTAKE & PIP
To start mandatory integration you should receive a BSN, residence permit, and register with the municipality. Your assigned municipality invites refugees for a meeting, called Brede intake. Its purpose is to obtain information from refugees to create The Personal Integration and Participation Plan, PIP. This plan tells what needs to be done to integrate and in what time frame.
Brede intake includes the following.
⭑ LBT, leerbaarheidstoets is the learning test, that indicates the level can be achieved in Dutch. Refugee, who has a visual or a hearing impairment, or is considered unable to pass the test, is given an exemption from it;
⭑ a survey about education and work experience in the country of origin;
⭑ examination of personal circumstances, including physical and mental health, in order to propose individual solutions in the integration process;
⭑ exploring opportunities for a refugee child to participate in preschool education.
In this article integration due to Civil Integration Law 2022 is described. The old Civil Integration Law 2013 continues to apply to people who were already subject to the civil integration requirement before 1 January 2022.
THEE INTEGRATION ROUTS
⭑ The B1 route is for newcomers, who are going to learn the Dutch language at the B1. At the same time, they can participate through voluntary or paid work.
⭑ The Onderwijs route. This education route is mainly for young people who are in the Netherlands attending tertiary education. They learn the Dutch language at level B1 or higher.
⭑ The zelfredzaamheidsroute route. The self-reliance route is for newcomers, who can learn the Dutch language only at the A1 level. This route prepares them in a more straightforward manner to participate in Dutch society.
BREDE INTAKE & PIP
To start mandatory integration you should receive a BSN, residence permit, and register with the municipality. Your assigned municipality invites refugees for a meeting, called Brede intake. Its purpose is to obtain information from refugees to create The Personal Integration and Participation Plan, PIP. This plan tells what needs to be done to integrate and in what time frame.
Brede intake includes the following.
⭑ LBT, leerbaarheidstoets is the learning test, that indicates the level can be achieved in Dutch. Refugee, who has a visual or a hearing impairment, or is considered unable to pass the test, is given an exemption from it;
⭑ a survey about education and work experience in the country of origin;
⭑ examination of personal circumstances, including physical and mental health, in order to propose individual solutions in the integration process;
⭑ exploring opportunities for a refugee child to participate in preschool education.
Based on Brede intake, the municipality determines the following.
⭑ The integration route to be followed by a refugee;
⭑ The necessary support and guidance for this;
⭑ The intensity of the education process and the module “Labor Market and Participation”;
⭑ The agreements were concluded with the refugee regarding the participation of his child in preschool education.
INTEGRATION PERIOD
The Integration Course can be taken in class or independently. At the end of the course within three years you must take an exam. The period begins on the day after the date of the Personal Integration Plan (PIP). The municipality pays for the integration course for holders of asylum status. The first 2 attempts to pass each exam are free.
FINES
A fine of €250 euros is imposed on a refugee who fails to show up for a wide reception or if they do not cooperate sufficiently in the wide reception process, for example by refusing to take a learning ability test. In the decision on the fine, the municipality sets a new period of no more than two months, during which the refugee must come to a meeting or begin to cooperate.
Fines of €340, €800, or €1,000 may be levied if the refugee fails to comply or does not cooperate sufficiently with the support and guidance offered, doesn't complete training, violates PIP.
TIPS & TRICS
It is important for refugees living with mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders to involve psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers from your mental clinics. Municipality employees are not trained to work with people with mental disorders and are required to involve practitioners from your mental clinic to receive recommendations for conditions and achievable goals of integration, because of your special needs and disabilities, and also to help with the creation of PIP, to support of PIP implementation, to define the suitable stage of your treatment for the start of PIP.
Wet Inburgering 2021
inburgeren.nl
Partisipation
⭑ The integration route to be followed by a refugee;
⭑ The necessary support and guidance for this;
⭑ The intensity of the education process and the module “Labor Market and Participation”;
⭑ The agreements were concluded with the refugee regarding the participation of his child in preschool education.
INTEGRATION PERIOD
The Integration Course can be taken in class or independently. At the end of the course within three years you must take an exam. The period begins on the day after the date of the Personal Integration Plan (PIP). The municipality pays for the integration course for holders of asylum status. The first 2 attempts to pass each exam are free.
FINES
A fine of €250 euros is imposed on a refugee who fails to show up for a wide reception or if they do not cooperate sufficiently in the wide reception process, for example by refusing to take a learning ability test. In the decision on the fine, the municipality sets a new period of no more than two months, during which the refugee must come to a meeting or begin to cooperate.
Fines of €340, €800, or €1,000 may be levied if the refugee fails to comply or does not cooperate sufficiently with the support and guidance offered, doesn't complete training, violates PIP.
TIPS & TRICS
It is important for refugees living with mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders to involve psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers from your mental clinics. Municipality employees are not trained to work with people with mental disorders and are required to involve practitioners from your mental clinic to receive recommendations for conditions and achievable goals of integration, because of your special needs and disabilities, and also to help with the creation of PIP, to support of PIP implementation, to define the suitable stage of your treatment for the start of PIP.
Wet Inburgering 2021
inburgeren.nl
Partisipation
SUPPORT YOURSELF
SUPPORT OTHERS
- ANTONY CHERENKOVFOUNDER & PEER-TO-PEER CONSULTANT
Passionate about mental health, social inclusion, and community support, Antony specialises in peer support for vulnerable communities. He received
a Master's Degree in Psychology and Pedagogy in Sochi State University
in Russia and further advanced his expertise by completing the Psychiatry
for Psychologists programme at Moscow State University. Antony is a film director, screenwriter, and producer at TABOO Motion Picture Company, where he develops socially engaged documentary, fiction and virtual reality projects exploring human rights, identity, and contemporary social issues.
- LEWIS SMITHPARTNERSHIPS LEAD VOLUNTEER
Passionate about humanitarian action, the environment and global development, Lewis specialises in institutional fundraising, strategic partnerships, and proposal development. With a proven background in driving impactful environmental and social initiatives, he brings deep expertise
in mobilising resources and fostering cross-sector collaborations to support vulnerable communities. Grounded in an academic background in International Development from the University of Sussex, Lewis is dedicated to bridging strategic partner engagement with long-term, scalable humanitarian impact.
To further strengthen his policy and risk expertise, he is also advancing his studies in Crisis and Security Management (Governance of Crisis) at Leiden University.
- GRACIA ALCAIDE CASTELLANOCOPYWRITER VOLUNTEER
Passionate about international cooperation, social impact, and sustainable development, Gracia specialises in project management, institutional fundraising, and strategic partnership development. With over 15 years
of experience managing externally funded projects, she has successfully led multi-partner international initiatives across the Media & Culture,
Research & Development, and Creative Industries sectors. Drawing
on a Bachelor's Degree in Law and extensive expertise in grant acquisition
and project delivery, Gracia has secured and managed funding from national and international donors.
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