Migrant workers' well-being after the rampant sweep of the Omicron wave in Hong Kong

The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has rendered migrant workers a vulnerable population susceptible to psychological distress. This cross-sectional study aimed to estimate the prevalence of anxiety and examine associations of perceived social support and working conditions with anxiety among Filipina domestic workers (FDWs) after the peak of the Omicron wave in Hong Kong.

In total, 370 female FDWs were recruited through convenience sampling in Central, Hong Kong, during holiday gatherings from June to August 2022; social normalcy had begun to return during this period after the peak of the Omicron pandemic. Anxiety levels were assessed using the Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale. Perceived social support and working conditions were measured using validated instruments. Socio-demographic characteristics and health-related information were recorded for consideration as covariates.

The estimated prevalence of anxiety (GAD-7 score ≥10) was 8.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]=5.8%-11.5%). Multivariable logistic regression demonstrated that greater satisfaction with compensation and salary (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=0.825, 95% CI=0.728-0.935), increased free time and rest periods (aOR=0.878, 95% CI=0.780-0.987), and higher satisfaction with value orientation (aOR=0.887, 95% CI=0.796-0.989) were associated with lower anxiety risk.

Migrant workers constitute a vital workforce but are often neglected in preventive care. Based on these findings, preventive measures such as labour protection, compensation for overtime work, adequate rest periods, and improved working conditions are crucial in mitigating anxiety. This study highlights key areas for policy refinement and governmental support to enhance migrant workers' well-being.