Mental Health Status of Nepali Migrant Workers in the United Kingdom

Year: 2024
Diya Rose Jojo
PhD Scholar, Christ University, India
Ngaitlang Mary Tariang
Assistant Professor, Christ University, India

The phenomenon of migration is a significant aspect of today’s globalised world, and this trend is evident in the movement of Nepali healthcare workers to the United Kingdom in pursuit of improved job opportunities and prospects. These workers migrated to the UK, leaving their families behind in Nepal and the distance between them and their family can also create a lot of stress which can lead to mental disorders. The escalating issue of mental health in Asian communities, particularly within the burgeoning Nepali population in the UK, presents a critical public health challenge, notably in accessing mental health services. Our current knowledge about mental health concerns among Nepali migrants in the UK is quite sparse, highlighting the need for a thorough examination of this issue. This study aims to delve into the key factors influencing mental health issues among Nepali migrant workers and the barriers they face in accessing and engaging with NHS mental health services. A qualitative methodology was employed in this research, consisting of detailed interviews with ten Nepali migrants employed in the UK. The analysis of the data was conducted using a thematic approach, leading to the identification of six central themes: stigma and fear, gender-related issues, language barriers, the influence of tradition and culture, the role of family involvement, and a general lack of cultural sensitivity among healthcare workers. These themes emerged as significant factors impacting mental health. This research provides valuable insights into the understanding of mental illness within the context of Nepali culture, aiming to enhance early intervention strategies in UK mental health services. The study underscores the urgency of incorporating cross-cultural perspectives in healthcare practices, emphasising it as a priority for the improvement of health services.

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