[How migration impacts mental health - epidemiological perspectives]

Abstract

At the end of 2018, almost 1/5th of Sweden's population were migrants (born abroad). Migrants in Sweden, including refugee migrants, have higher risks for psychosis and PTSD, but lower risks for alcohol dependence and suicide than Swedish-born. Regarding depression and anxiety, refugees have a higher risk than other foreign-born people, but it is unclear whether other foreign-born persons are at higher risk than Swedish-born. Asylum seekers and refugees seem particularly vulnerable to poor mental health, and this is especially apparent for so called unaccompanied migrant minors. Health-promoting factors are social inclusion with work or education for adults, and preschool and school for children and adolescents.