This field report describes the activities of a local, nongovernmental organisation attempting to strengthen the system of psychosocial support available in schools in North Ossetia, Russia. This semi autonomous republic in the Russian Federation has been plagued by terrorism and the influx of internally displaced and refugee children. The activities described aim to address the mental health needs of the children, their families and caregivers, and foster healthy psychosocial development within the school system.

This letter has been written by two mental health professionals who are refugees from Syria, currently living in Jordan. For reasons of safety, and to avoid any retribution to our families, the editors have requested that we are known only through our professional titles; a psychologist and a psychiatrist.

Dear Sir,

Jordan received a significant influx of Iraqi refugees as a result of war, ongoing conflict, political instability, and limited economic opportunities in Iraq. The multiple needs of Iraqi refugees are primarily met through international donors and non-profit organisations that implement comprehensive programmes, including the provision of mental health care and psychosocial support. With significant human and monetary resources being allocated towards these short term needs, strong coordination is essential among participating organisations in order to optimise outcomes.

Context affects research validity. Therefore, in order to reduce any uncertainty about their findings, cross-cultural researchers should use appropriate methodological techniques. Using focus groups to evaluate the quality of standard measures is one such technique. This paper highlights a study composed of six focus groups that was conducted at the Medical Faculty of the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, with the purpose of assessinge quivalence of measures of wellbeing and mental health. Each focus group consisted of three males and three females (age range 35-62).