Mental Health Issues of Sri Lankan Female Migrant Workers in Middle Eastern Countries

Abstract

Imports and exports are critical factors in managing a country's economy. Primarily, unemployed women in this country, and to a relatively lesser extent, men, migrate for foreign employment. As women migrate abroad as laborers in this manner, they face a multitude of social, physical, and mental issues. According to foreign employment reports, 71 women who returned to the country from the Gulf region in the recent past were suffering from insanity and severe mental distress. When migrating, workers place a low value on their personal health because they are unaware of the health issues that may affect them.

Accordingly, the primary objective of this research was to study the mental health issues of women seeking employment in Middle Eastern countries. Additionally, the study seeks to identify solutions to the mental health issues faced by women due to migration. Questionnaires and structured interview methods were utilized as techniques for data collection. Under the simple random sampling method, a sample of 50 women was selected from the Kahawatta, Madampe, Godakawela, Pelmadulla, and Sannasgama Divisional Secretariat Divisions in the Ratnapura District, and data was obtained from them.

Data analysis was conducted with the assistance of statistical software. The analysis revealed the prevalence of physical ailments such as high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, neurological disorders, eye diseases, and heart diseases, as well as mental health issues including fear of the unfamiliar environment, language barriers, and separation from family. It was confirmed that 52% of the individuals suffered from mental health issues. Furthermore, it was revealed that health insurance is provided upon migration depending on the employment status. Finally, it can be concluded that by minimizing the issues faced by migrant women, more productive services can be obtained, and that greater government attention should be directed toward this matter.