In recent decades, global migration has become both more extensive and more complex, involving tens to hundreds of millions of people who cross international (and often internal) borders in search of employment, safety, stability, or opportunity. Migrant workers—those who relocate for primarily economic reasons and take up employment in a country or region other than their place of origin—constitute a significant portion of the global migrant population. However, empirical evidence points to elevated risks of depressive, anxiety, and stress‑related symptoms among migrant workers globally. For example, a recent meta‑analysis of studies from 2015 to 2021 across 17 countries found prevalence estimates of depression (38.99%) and anxiety (27.31%) among migrant workers, with a variety of occupational, environmental, social, and individual risk factors contributing. Thus, this study aims to understand how government and mental health professionals can reach out and provide culturally adaptive services for migrant workers to maintain or restore their psychological well‑being.
This research project is conducted based on action study. As we carried out our mental health services plan for 500 migrant workers, we collected quantitative and qualitative data through interviewing 10 service providers and observing the process of mental health services. Based on the our findings, we made some suggestions for future mental health services plan for migrant workers. For examples, with some helping skills training, immigrants from similar countries can play a crucial role in connecting migrant workers and local mental health professionals. Mental health outreach programs are more acceptable by migrant workers especially when it includes their interests like photography and cooking activities. In addition, legal and financial professionals should also be included in the mental health services provider team. Other suggestions for modifying mental health services plan will be presented in presentation.