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The Impact of Stressors on Depressive Symptoms Among Youth Myanmar Migrant Workers in Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Study

  • 0College of Public Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Psychology Research and Behavior Management +

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July 15, 2024

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July 15, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Workplace, security, and living stressors significantly increase depressive symptoms in young Myanmar migrant workers. Low self-esteem also contributes to depression, highlighting the need for targeted mental health support.

Area Of Science

  • Public Health
  • Mental Health Research
  • Sociology

Background

  • Youth migrant workers face higher risks of depressive symptoms globally.
  • Limited research exists on stressors impacting young migrant populations' mental health.
  • This study focuses on young Myanmar migrants in Thailand, a vulnerable group.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the impact of various stressors on depressive symptoms among young Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand.
  • To identify specific factors contributing to mental health challenges in this population.

Main Methods

  • A cross-sectional study involving 165 young Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand.
  • Data collected via self-administered questionnaires including sociodemographic information, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and CESD.
  • Hierarchical linear regression analysis used to examine associations between stressors, self-esteem, and depressive symptoms.

Main Results

  • Nearly half (47.9%) of young Myanmar migrant workers reported depressive symptoms.
  • Workplace stressors (β = 0.525), security stressors (β = 0.181), and living stressors (β = 0.126) were significantly associated with increased depressive symptoms.
  • Lower self-esteem (β = -0.135) was also significantly associated with higher depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

  • Workplace, security, and living stressors significantly elevate depressive symptoms in young Myanmar migrants.
  • Self-esteem acts as a protective factor, reducing depressive symptoms.
  • Policy interventions should address specific stressors and prioritize accessible mental health care for this vulnerable population.

Keywords:

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