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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2020.12.14.422661

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

Poudel, O. P.·Thapa, B.·Bhandary, S.
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Abstract

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.

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Poudel, O. P., Thapa, B., Bhandary, S.. 2020-12-14. Pre-departure psychological distress and associated factors among migrant workers of Nepal. https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.12.14.422661

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