The Mental Health Diaspora: Global Perspectives on Well-being and Access

Differences in Country of Origin of Immigrant Families

Imagine a baby girl born to a first-generation Caucasian immigrant family in the vibrant capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. Her new parents cradle their rosy, healthy baby, savoring a moment of pure bliss. Meanwhile, thousands of miles away, an Iranian family of four is desperately trying to escape a war-torn region, anxiously awaiting the next flight to the United States in search of safety, better health, education for their two boys, and a brighter future.

Which family do you think faces more challenges regarding their mental health? Most might instinctively assume that the Iranian family, grappling with the trauma of fleeing danger and the heavy responsibilities of their decision, would experience greater mental health struggles. However, research indicates that generational differences in mental health are particularly pronounced among families at the lower end of the socioeconomic spectrum.

Moreover, the authors of the study argue that when the country of origin significantly differs from the destination, the mental health of immigrant children can suffer. This is in stark contrast to those whose backgrounds align more closely with their new environment. Additional factors contributing to poorer mental health among these children include family conflict and limited access to educational resources. These challenges—family strife and inadequate educational opportunities—have been shown to adversely affect the mental health of immigrant children from diverse backgrounds.

Mental Health of International Adoptees versus That of Domestic Adoptees

Socio-economic status and Mental Health Outcomes

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