Pre-departure psychological distress and associated factors among migrant workers of Nepal

IntroductionForeign employment is the most significant motivation for international migration in Nepal. However, migrant workers are vulnerable to many exploitations that lead to psychological distress during the pre-departure phase and at the destination. The study aimed to identify the prevalence and associated factors for psychological distress among migrant workers during the pre-departure phase. MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study based on the representative sample of 445 migrant workers. A 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) and Pre-Departure Risk Factors Perception Scale (PD-RFPS) at the workplace were self-administered to migrant workers selected randomly attending the pre-departure orientation program. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify the associated factors. ResultsPrevalence of psychological distress (Depression, Anxiety and Stress) was identified as 20.9% and female (AOR=2.02, p-value=0.041) and perception of bad working conditions (AOR=2.44, p-value=0.046) were found significantly associated with pre-departure psychological distress. ConclusionData suggests the presence of symptoms of psychological distress among migrant workers during the pre-departure phase and perception of risk factors at the workplace were found significantly associated with pre-departure psychological distress. Concern bodies should provide in-depth orientation on possible risk factors at the destination and coping skills for psychological distress during the pre-departure orientation program.