Comparison of Psychological Distress Between Migrant and Japanese Workers

Abstract

We conducted an online questionnaire survey to investigate whether the prevalence of psychological distress among migrant workers in Japan is higher than that of Japanese workers. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale was used to measure the high psychological distress (HPD) with cutoff scores of 16, 22, and 30. There were no significant differences in the prevalence of HPD between migrant and Japanese workers, and the sensitivity analysis with propensity score adjustment showed consistent results. However, when the cutoff point was set to 30, the risk of HPD in migrants decreased as their income increased compared to Japanese workers (Odds ratio=0.05, 95% Confidence interval=0.00, 0.82). While the healthy migrant effect may be beneficial in protecting migrant workers against the stressful migration process, the deficiency of a robust support system in Japanese society continues to impose psychological burdens on them. Moreover, mental health outcomes, including psychological distress, may vary due to heterogeneity within the migrant population. A Comprehensive enhancement of the receiving environment for immigrants and the establishment of a legal foundation for Japan’s immigrant policies are required.