Mental Health Status of Iranian Migrants in Sydney

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the levels and predictors of psychological distress within the Iranian community in Sydney, Australia. METHOD: Participants (n = 161) were identified using snowball sampling, and a questionnaire incorporating the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-20) and other migration-related factors was mailed to their preferred address. RESULTS: A relatively high proportion of respondents (37%) had GHQ-20 scores above the recommended threshold (4+). Students were significantly more likely to report psychological distress compared with respondents who worked full-time. A feeling that migration had contributed to their distress was also found to be significantly associated with above-threshold GHQ-20 scores. CONCLUSIONS: Iranian migrants in Sydney may need mental health programs to address migration-related distress.