The Impact of COVID-19 on the Mental Health and Well-Being of Immigrant Healthcare Workers

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed tremendous strain and presented unprecedented challenges for health systems and healthcare workers (HCW) across the world. Research shows that HCW on the frontline are at higher risk of burnout, anxiety, depression, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, just to name a few. Traditionally, research on mental health and HCW has predominantly focused on the generalized healthcare professional workforce. Largely missing from this conversation are immigrant HCW. This is surprising given that immigrant workers are crucially important in treating Americans fighting COVID-19 and over-represented in various healthcare occupations and States. Through an intersectionality lens, the authors identify unique factors during the COVID-19 pandemic that can impact the mental health of immigrant HCW. The authors discuss the negative attitudes towards immigrant HCW and mental health outcomes and the unique intersecting factors of race, immigrant status, and class. Recommendations for future interventions, research, and practical implications are provided.