Depressive symptoms prevalence and its associated factors among cross border migrants in Thailand, 2023: a cross-sectional mixed-method study

Abstract

Background: Depression constitutes a substantial portion of global mental health concerns. Among migrant populations, access to mental healthcare is often hindered by various barriers, potentially leading to undiagnosed depressive symptoms. Thailand has hosted a large number of cross-border migrants from its neighboring countries, especially, Cambodia, Laos PDR and Myanmar (CLM), for years. However, little is known about the prevalence of depressive symptoms and its associated factors amongst migrants in Thailand, and this comes the objective of this study. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional mixed-method study to assess the prevalence of depressive symptoms and identify its associated factors. Quantitative data were collected through a paper-based questionnaire which comprised demographic characteristics and depressive symptoms screening questions by the Department of Mental Health, the Thai Ministry of Public Health. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine the related factors of depressive symptoms. Qualitative data were gathered by in-depth interviews with civic group representatives and migrants. Content analysis with inductive coding was applied. Results: A total of 431 participants were included in the analysis, with the majority being female (73.3%) and from Myanmar (97.9%). The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 11.8%, categorized as mild (9.7%), moderate (1.6%), and severe (0.5%) respectively. Factors associated with reduced likelihood of depressive symptoms included having public insurance, completing at least high school education, and being employed, while alcohol consumption increased the odds of depressive symptoms. Qualitative analysis highlighted the protective role of public insurance against depressive symptoms. Besides, from the interviews, some migrants consumed alcohol as a coping mechanism towards depressive symptoms. Conclusion: This study reveals a noteworthy prevalence of depressive symptoms among cross-border migrants in Thailand. Significant factors included being insured by public insurance scheme, obtaining favorable education background and being employed. A better understanding of how these factors contribute to depressive symptoms is vital in designing comprehensive mental health policies to address the mental well-being of migrants. Further studies that reach out to all types of migrants and expand the scope of mental health beyond depressive symptoms are recommended.