A conceptual study on the relationship between daily stressors, stressful life events, and mental health in refugees using network analysis

Abstract

IntroductionThere is growing recognition that daily stressors, such as social and material deficiencies, can be highly detrimental to the mental health of refugees. These stressors are in addition to stressful life events, which have been widely studied in the context of migration and forced displacement. Despite increasing evidence for an ecological model, there is still no consensus regarding the conceptualization of these highly influential factors. In particular, the demarcation of daily stressors from stressful life events and the categorization of daily stressors require further examination in order to develop usable and accurate tools for researchers, design effective interventions for practitioners and assist politicians in designing meaningful policies.MethodsTo address these challenges, we used data from a sample of 392 unaccompanied young refugees from diverse backgrounds and employed network analysis to examine the relationships between daily stressors, stressful life events, and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress.ResultsOur findings highlight the significant relationship between daily stressors and mental health, particularly depression. Meaningful clusters of daily stressors include material stressors, social stressors, and social exclusion stressors.ConclusionOur results demonstrate the importance of considering daily stressors in the mental health of refugees and suggest that using a network approach offers a viable way to study these complex interrelationships. These findings have implications for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in understanding and addressing the mental health needs of refugees.

A Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Interventions for Afghan Refugee Mental Health: A Cultural Adaptation Analysis

“…This can sometimes exceed the effects of their past trauma exposure prior to and during their forced migration. Research has indicated that daily stressors can contribute to equal or even higher levels of depression, anxiety, and distress than the adversities that refugees experienced during their displacement (Behrendt et al, 2023; Hornfeck et al, 2023; Miller & Rasmussen, 2010). While the daily stressors that refugees face spans multiple domains, for example, acculturative stress, limited housing, threat of deportation, and restricted social capital, many interventions fail to adequately address them (Behrendt et al, 2023).…”

“…Research has indicated that daily stressors can contribute to equal or even higher levels of depression, anxiety, and distress than the adversities that refugees experienced during their displacement (Behrendt et al, 2023; Hornfeck et al, 2023; Miller & Rasmussen, 2010). While the daily stressors that refugees face spans multiple domains, for example, acculturative stress, limited housing, threat of deportation, and restricted social capital, many interventions fail to adequately address them (Behrendt et al, 2023). Interventions that consider and account for a variety of daily stressors may improve mental health outcomes more than those solely focusing on pre-migration and displacement trauma.…”

Health literacy strengths and needs among migrant communities from Portuguese-speaking African countries in Portugal: a cross-sectional study

“…Migrant’s health outcomes are influenced by many factors, including their country of origin, where differences in endemic diseases, health infrastructures and prevailing health behaviours play an important role in defining health profiles ( 9 ). In addition, the physical and psychological stress associated with the migration process can exacerbate existing health problems and introduce new health challenges ( 14 ). Socioeconomic status is another determinant, as limited access to essential resources such as nutritious food, stable housing and health services has a significant impact on overall health outcomes ( 11 ).…”