Depression in migrants and ethnic minorities

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Abstract
Migration and its associated processes can produce considerable stress on those who are migrating as well as on those around them. Depression should be a common sequel of the process, but is not consistently found to be so. This paper reviews the literature and suggests that various vulnerability factors, including culture shock and changed cultural identity, can play a role in the genesis of depression. Clinicians must be aware of patterns of migration and resilience factors in order to plan any intervention strategies. Stresses due to political and economic factors will have differing influences on the mental state of individuals. One possible contribution may be a discrepancy between aspiration and achievement, which can result in poor self-esteem, leading to depression.