Social determinants of mental health problems among South Asian migrants living in industrialized countries: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Migration involves a risk of mental health problems, including stress, anxiety, and depression. This study systematically reviewed social determinants of mental health problems among South Asian migrants living in industrialized countries. Methods: Four databases (PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsycINFO) were searched for observational studies published between 2000 and 2025. The social ecological model was used as a theoretical framework. Studies that included adult South Asian migrants using validated mental health tools were included. Social determinants of mental health were identified through extraction of social factors that demonstrated statistically significant associations with mental health problems. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO and followed PRISMA guidelines. Results: Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression ranged from 23% to 59%, 20% to 50%, and 9% to 47%, respectively. Common social determinants of mental health problems were age, gender, marital status, social support, language, education, and employment. Being older, female, unmarried, or unemployed or having less social support or lower education, or facing language barriers were major factors influencing mental health problems. Conclusions: The findings warrant the development and implementation of policies focused on addressing these social determinants of mental health problems and improving access to and utilization of mental health services.