Systematic review of mental health problems and migration stressors among Kurdish migrants in western host countries

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the mental health outcomes of Kurdish migrants, with particular attention to the prevalence of psychological disorders and the impact of pre- and post-migration stressors.

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar according to the PRISMA guidelines. The strategy combined medical subject headings (MeSH) and relevant keywords on Kurdish migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and mental health. The search yielded 132 records, of which 15 studies met the eligibility criteria, representing a total of 5,319 participants. The methodological quality and risk of bias of the included studies were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Following migration and resettlement in host countries, Kurdish migrants were found to experience high rates of PTSD (36.9%), depression (36.3%), and anxiety (27.7%), together with additional difficulties such as insomnia, fatigue, and suicidal ideation. Pre-migration was most often driven by war and political oppression (81.1%), violence and persecution (60.7%), and economic hardship (59.1%). Post-migration stressors included family separation (47%), discrimination and violence (51.4%), isolation and loneliness (51.7%), economic difficulties (40%), fear of deportation (21%), and other problems (30%).

As one of the largest stateless and historically persecuted populations, Kurds experience distinctive challenges in their migration journeys. Their significant burden of mental health problems underscores the need for culturally tailored and trauma-informed interventions that address both displacement experiences and barriers to integration in host societies, as well as during deportation and reintegration into their home countries.