Patients with depressive disorders in asylum procedure: the stress of migration and acculturation in relation to a precarious residence permit status

Background: Several studies indicate that immigra ion is associated with a higher risk for mental disorders. This risk is even intensified for refugees and asylum seekers as they are often less prepared for migration. Methods: Data of Turkish migrants with a psychiatric disorder from a German outpatient service were analysed. Migrants with and without asylum seeking status (AP+/AP-) were compared with respect to stressors related to migration and acculturation assessed with a clinician-based questionnaire comprising 10 categories (MIGSTR10), and clinical variables. Results: Of N=450 migrant outpatients (>80% with depressive disorder), N=65 (14%) were aP+; AP+ were younger (38±10 vs. 44±11y) than AP-, with a larger proportion of illiteracy (9% vs. 3%) and language difficulties (90% vs. 63%) in AP+ (P