Psychological distress, and PTSD among migrants in a rural region of Germany

Abstract Background Migration is associated with increased risks of mental health issues such as psychological distress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study aims to provide data on psychological distress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among migrants in Germany. Methods We conducted a longitudinal study with two measurement points among adults aged 18-65 years old in Emden, Lower Saxony, Germany. Here, we report results from 06/2018-06/2019. Standardized instruments were used to assess psychological distress (GHQ-28), and PTSD (HTQ-5). Sociodemographic factors included gender, age, marital status, employment status, household income, and migration status. Linear regression models were employed to examine associations between migration status and mental health outcomes, adjusting for sociodemographic factors. Results The analytical sample includes 356 participants (142 males, 214 females; mean age=44.9 years, SD = 12.2). Psychological distress was reported by 39.0% (n = 139), PTSD by 6.2% (n = 22). Migrants reported higher rates than non-migrants for psychological distress (41.0% vs. 38.6%, p = 0.733), and PTSD (9.8% vs. 5.4%, p = 0.193). Sociodemographic factors as marital status and employment status were significantly associated with psychological distress and PTSD. In adjusted regression models, migration status was significantly associated with PTSD (B = 0.147, 95%CI: 0.016-0.278, p = 0.028), but not with psychological distress. Conclusions The study indicates that PTSD is significantly associated with migrant status, when controlling for sociodemographic factors. Sociodemographic factors play a significant role in explaining mental health outcomes among migrants. Longitudinal data are necessary to better understand the factors influencing mental health of migrants.