Migrants in socioeconomically deprived areas of Berlin. Psychological distress and substance use

作者：Mundt Adrian P^*; Aichberger Marion C; Kliewe Thomas; Yayla Seda; Ignatyev Yuriy; Mir Jan; Schouler Ocak Meryam; Busch Markus; Heimann Hannah; Rapp Michael; Heinz Andreas; Stroehle Andreas

来源：Psychotherapeut, 2012, 57(1): 29-35.

DOI：10.1007/s00278-011-0880-x

• Mental health
• General Health Questionnaire
• Socioeconomic status
• Alcohol drinking
• Smoking

The aim of the present study was to compare psychological distress and substance use between migrant and non-migrant populations in a socially deprived area of Berlin.
A population-based random sample stratified for age (18-57 years) and gender (50% female) was retrieved from the registration office. A total of 143 persons were included in the study. The participation rate was 48.5% when contact was established. Psychological distress was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) with its four subscales, somatic symptoms, anxiety/insomnia, social dysfunction and severe depression. Substance use was quantified using the Alcohol Use Identification Disorder Test (AUDIT) and the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND).
Of the study population 51.3% were first or second generation migrants and lived more often in single households. Migrants had lower educational levels and lower employment rates. The mean scores of migrants and non-migrants did not differ on any of the subscales somatic symptoms, anxiety/depression, social dysfunction or severe depression of the GHQ-28. Non-migrants showed significantly higher risks regarding alcohol use.
The present study did not reveal any differences regarding symptom profiles in the spectrum of anxiety and depression between non-migrants and migrants who lived in a socially deprived area. Migrants may compensate higher social risk profiles with lower risks regarding alcohol use. Larger samples have to inform on possible differences regarding smoking and other substances.

• 出版日期2012-1