Prevalence and predictors of mental health among global migrants into Europe: A systematic review

Abstract

The study investigated the prevalence and predictors of mental health among migrants in Europe. A systematic review approach was adopted and  existing journals were sourced for in the following databases; Psychology and behavioral sciences collection and APA PsychInfo. The search terms used  include; “mental health or mental illness or mental disorder or psychiatric illness” and “indicators or factors of determinants” and “migrants or  immigrants or asylum seekers of refugees” and “Europe or European or EU or European countries”. Through the use of inclusion and exclusion criteria  that addresses the language used in the published journal (English language), research method adopted (Quantitative), duration (between 2010 and  2022), and participants (current migrants living in Europe), the number of utilized journals was reduced to thirteen (k = 13) from 467. It was discovered  from the review that mental health issues vary across depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), stressful life event(s), anxiety, well-being, and  emotional distress among migrants. Also, in comparison with non-migrants, migrants consistently reported higher levels of mental health issues or  disorders ranging from depression to anxiety, and stressful life event(s), amongst others. Gender, age, length of stay, financial constraints, social (peer)  support, and exposure to traumatic event(s) were discovered to be the predictors of mental health among migrants. Recommendations and suggestions  were made based on the findings of the study.