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Psychiatric problems among Iranian immigrants in Canada
1University of Toronto, Ontario.
Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. Revue Canadienne De Psychiatrie
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Iranian immigrants in Canada show high rates of psychiatric conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder and adjustment disorder. Migration and displacement significantly impact the mental health of this population.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Immigration Studies
- Sociology
Background:
- The Iranian diaspora in Canada has grown significantly since 1979.
- Post-1979 political events, including the revolution and Iran-Iraq war, likely influenced immigrant mental health.
- Limited research exists on the psychiatric prevalence among Iranian immigrants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among Iranian immigrants seeking treatment in Canada.
- To explore the impact of migration and displacement on the mental well-being of this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 111 Iranian patients referred for psychiatric treatment.
- Data collected between 1985 and 1988.
- Analysis based on DSM-III-R criteria for psychiatric diagnoses.
Main Results:
- 98% of patients immigrated after 1979.
- 10% experienced trauma related to the Iranian revolution or war.
- 10% met criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- 60% met criteria for adjustment disorder with depressed or anxious mood.
- 6% reported physical and psychological torture and confinement.
Conclusions:
- Iranian immigrants in Canada exhibit a high burden of psychiatric disorders.
- Trauma, torture, and displacement associated with political upheaval are significant contributing factors.
- Migration and displacement profoundly affect the mental health and psychic integrity of Iranian immigrants.