Editorial: Mental health characteristics of migrant and local populations in the prevention and management of mental health disorders

Abstract

This Research Topic endeavors to contribute to the understanding of mental health characteristics among migrant and local populations. The overarching goal is to shed light on the multifaceted nature of migration, exploring its impact on mental wellbeing through assessments and evidence-based interventions. This initiative aims to expand the existing corpus of literature in the field and four key studies form the foundation of this exploration. Migration, a multifaceted and dynamic phenomenon influenced by various factors such as economic conditions, political situations, environmental changes, and individual aspirations, encompasses diverse categories of migrants driven by distinct motives. Economic migrants seek improved financial prospects, while refugees flee persecution, and climate migrants are displaced due to environmental changes. Forced migrants, including internally displaced persons, are compelled to leave their homes within their country, and mixed migration involves a combination of motives . As of 2020, ~281 million people globally had migrated, with 82.4 million being forcibly displaced individuals, including 26.4 million refugees. The mental health of migrants is intricately connected to socioeconomic factors, with poverty, unemployment, discrimination, and other determinants influencing an individual's wellbeing. Housing instability, neighborhood conditions, and access to healthcare services also play roles in mental health outcomes. Social support, derived from community and networks, is crucial for mental wellbeing, while the societal stigma surrounding mental health and cultural norms impact help-seeking behavior. Early life experiences, workplace factors, and access to resources further contribute to mental health disparities. The research by Pham et al. delves into the association between social support and the development of depressive symptoms among storm-affected Vietnamese Americans, recommending prioritization of social support resources in the aftermath of hurricanes.