Influence of Living and Working Environments on Depressive Symptoms among Myanmar Migrant Workers in the South of Thailand

Abstract

Introduction: Previous studies indicated that living and working environments have influence on depression. However, there are limited studies on the association between living and working environments and depressive symptoms among Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand. Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms and influence of living and working environments on depressive symptoms among Myanmar migrant workers in the South of Thailand. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 1,022 Myanmar migrants who were selected by using a multi-stage random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was developed and used for interviewing the participants. The multilevel logistic regression was performed to determine the association between living and working environments and depressive symptoms when controlling other covariates. Results: The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 53.03% (95% CI: 49.96-56.09). Living and working environments significantly associated with depressive symptoms were; moderate to severe problems on living conditions (adj. OR=2.45; 95% CI: 1.55-3.86, p-value <0.001), the limitation in traveling (adj. OR=2.28; 95%CI: 1.47-3.53, p-value <0.001), high level of involvement with peers (adj. OR=1.61; 95% CI: 1.20-2.16, p-value=0.001) and indoor workplace (adj. OR=1.60; 95% CI: 1.17-2.18, p-value=0.003). Significant other covariates were; chronic diseases and received health information. Conclusion: Depressive symptoms were common among Myanmar migrants in the South of Thailand. Living and working conditions, social interaction and health awareness had influenced their mental health status.

Keywords

• depression
• exercise
• health behaviour
• physical health status