Influence of Mental Health and Social Relationships on Quality of Life among Myanmar Migrant Workers in the South of Thailand

Abstract

Background: Previous studies indicated that mental health and social relationships have influence on quality of life. However, there are limited studies on the association between mental health and social relationships on quality of life among Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand. Method: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of quality of life and the influence of mental health and social relationships on quality of life among Myanmar migrant workers in the South of Thailand. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 794 Myanmar migrants who were selected by using a multi-stage random sampling from 2 provinces in the South of Thailand to respond to a structured questionnaire interview. The generalized linear mixed model analysis was performed to determine the association between mental health and social relationships on quality of life when controlling other covariates. Results: The prevalence of good quality of life among Myanmar migrant workers was 11.46% (95% CI:9.24-13.68). Mental health and social relationships were significantly associated with good quality of life were; no had depressive symptoms (adj. OR=3.83; 95% CI: 2.28-6.43, p-value < 0.001), had good relationship with employers (adj. OR=3.02; 95% CI: 1.71-5.31, p-value < 0.001) and had high level of involvement with peers (adj. OR=1.90; 95% CI: 1.09-3.32, p-value < 0.023). Significant covariates were average personal monthly incomes and received health information. About one-tenth of Myanmar migrant workers had a good quality of life. Mental health, social relationships and access to health information had influenced their quality of life.