Mental health in migrants contacting the mental health operational unit of the National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (NIHMP): preliminary data

Abstract

Aim: Migration can lead to an increase in stress rates and can impact mental health, especially in certain migrant groups. Nonetheless, mental health needs and the importance of public health are not well captured in most studies using national samples. This study aimed to show the correlation between mental disorders, socio-demographic and cultural aspects among migrants. Subject and methods: One hundred nineteen migrants, applying for assessment to the Mental Health Operational Unit of the National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (NIHMP) in Rome, were recruited. Results: Migrants frequently reported mood disorders (mainly women). Men reported PTSD, somatization and adjustment disorders. Conclusions: Over time, diverse factors may produce a decline in an initially healthy migrant status. The research unveils a new focus on the psychopathology of migrants accessing the NIHMP, with important implications for migrants’ mental health treatment and prevention.