Effect of migration and stressful life events on women's mental health and quality of life

Introduction: There is conflicting evidence in the literature regarding the impact of migration on mental health and quality of life, partly due to the heterogeneity of migrant populations. There is a lack of research on migrant women's mental health needs, and which factors limit their quality of life. This qualitative study investigated: 1) the experiences women in diverse communities in the UK perceive to have impacted on their mental health and quality of life; and 2) how their mental health and quality of life have been affected. Methods: Qualitative study using individual semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of immigrant women from various immigrant communities and women born in the UK living in London. A thematic analysis was carried out. Results: Thirty in-depth interviews were conducted with twenty immigrant women, and ten British women. The distribution of country of origin, age, time in the UK, and age at migration in the sample was representative of the immigrant community in London. Preliminary analysis identified that lack of agency in: the decision to migrate, their communities, and their immigration status and leave to remain in the UK negatively impacts on women's mental health and limits their quality of life. Conclusions: Policy and services should acknowledge the impact forced migration, uncertain immigration status, and limited agency in the community may have on women's mental health. Furthermore, the barriers these factors may consequently present to seeking care should be addressed.