The Relation between Socio-economic Status and Mental Health of Returnee Labor Migrants from the Gulf Countries in Dhangadi Sub-Metropolitan

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between socio-economic status and mental health among returnee labor migrants from Gulf countries, focusing on the Dhangadi Sub-Metropolitan area. A quantitative research design used standardized tools to assess socio-economic and mental health status among 176 participants, predominantly male (82.40%) and aged mainly between early and middle adulthood. The findings revealed a weak negative correlation between socio-economic status and mental health, indicating that higher socio-economic status did not necessarily translate to better mental health outcomes for these migrants. The prevalence of mental health issues was notably high among upper-class returnee migrants, suggesting that factors beyond economic conditions significantly affect mental well-being. The study highlights the impact of socio-cultural stigma associated with mental health, which prevents individuals from seeking help and exacerbates their conditions. The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic led to increased financial burdens and related mental health challenges, with returnees often facing discrimination upon returning home. This research underscores the urgent need for targeted mental health interventions and increased awareness about the psychological struggles faced by returnee labor migrants, whose experiences reflect broader issues of mental health and socio-economic mobility in Nepal. Overall, the study emphasizes the necessity of addressing mental health as a critical component of support for returnee migrants, alongside their economic reintegration.