Citation

Adhikari SB, Daniulaityte R, Bhatta DN. J. Immigr. Minor. Health 2021; 23(3): 511-518.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s10903-021-01149-z

PMID

33544292

Abstract

This study aims to identify socio-demographic and psychosocial characteristics associated with the suicidal ideation among resettled Bhutanese refugees in the United States. Structured interviews were conducted with 200 resettled Bhutanese refugees in Columbus, Ohio. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify variables associated with suicidal ideation. Most participants were male (59.0%), married (77.9%), 55% reported no formal education, 12% were of Dalit ("lower") caste, and 6.2% reported suicidal ideation. Multivariable logistic regression analysis included four variables that were significant at p < 0.05 in bivariate analyses: caste, post-settlement difficulties, mental health diagnosis, and social support. Higher odds of suicidal ideation were linked to mental health diagnosis [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 8.7], low social support (AOR: 23.6), and post-settlement difficulties (AOR: 1.4). In the multivariable model, untouchable caste had elevated odds of suicidal ideation but statistically not significant. Culturally competent mental health services are needed to support individuals at risk for suicidal ideation.

Language: en

Keywords

Humans; Cross-Sectional Studies; Risk Factors; United States; Male; Depression; Suicidal Ideation; Mental health; Refugees; Suicidal ideation; Demography; Bhutan; Dalit caste; Post-settlement difficulties; Resettled refugees