Psychological Distress among California Vietnamese Immigrants: Correlates and Implications for Outreach

Background: Compared to US-born Asians and the general US population, Asian immigrants report lower utilization of mental health services despite similar prevalence of psychological distress. To guide strategies to promote knowledge and utilization of mental health services, we examined factors associated with psychological distress among Vietnamese immigrants. Methods: We analyzed data from a 2008 population-based, random telephone survey, the California Vietnamese Adult Tobacco Use Survey. We assessed 3 levels of psychological distress by the number of symptoms (feeling slowed down; sleep difficulties; excessive worrying; sadness) experienced frequently in the past week): “minimal” (≤1); “elevated” (2); and “significant” (3-4). Multivariate regression analyses were conducted using weighted data. Results: Among 2,136 respondents, mean age was 42 years (range 18-90), 49.9% were female, 22% had immigrated within 10 years, and 34% were fluent in English. More women than men (p = 0.03) reported psychological distress at “elevated” (7.2% vs 5.3%) and “significant” (4.7% vs. 2.7%) levels. Correlates of “elevated” or “significant” distress for both sexes were English fluency and poor perceived general health. Correlates among women were being unmarried, being Buddhist or Christian, and being a smoker. Correlates among men were less education, unemployment, lacking health insurance, and having been in the military/police plus re-education camp in Vietnam. Conclusions: Findings indicate potential strategies to promote knowledge and utilization of mental health services among Vietnamese immigrants. Faith-based settings may be an effective channel for women and addressing general health concerns may be a promising outreach strategy for both men and women.