Prevalence and Risk Factors of Psychological Distress and Depression Among Bangladeshi Migrants In Australia: A Cross-sectional Study

An estimated 1 in 5 Australian adults (4.3 million) experienced a mental health condition in the past twelve months. This study determined the prevalence, levels, and factors associated with psychological distress and depression among Bangladeshi migrants in Australia. An online survey was conducted in 2023 among Bangladeshi-born adult migrants living in Australia for ≥ 1 year. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire in Bangla. Psychological distress and depression were assessed using the Kessler psychological distress scale and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale Revised scale respectively. Risk factors were identified using logistic regression. Of the 196 respondents, the prevalence of ‘high to very high levels’ of psychological distress among Bangladeshi migrants was 42.7% and that of depression was 34.7%, more than double the Australian national average. Novel risk factors identified include non-engaging in activities with family/friends (AOR 5.34, 95% CIs 1.35–26.77), with community (2.65, 1.16–6.09), and absence of prior income in Bangladesh (3.37, 1.09–13.13). Migrants from rural Bangladesh (0.42, 0.17–0.97), aged ≥ 30 years (0.17, 0.04–0.63), and active on social media (0.26, 0.08–0.78) were less likely to be depressed. Other risk factors identified were loneliness, poor friendship, discrimination, racism, multiple comorbidities, and low English proficiency. This study identified social, economic, and cultural factors affecting Bangladeshi migrants’ mental health and recommends advocacy for policy changes to develop targeted mental health interventions and support services for migrants, focusing on enhancing social connectedness, building language skills, addressing discrimination, and encouraging community-based initiatives that foster social connections and a sense of belonging.