UNFAVORABLE VISA STATUS AND INTERSECTING ACCULTURATION FACTORS LINKED TO DEPRESSION

Abstract

Aims: This study proposes that visa status and acculturation are important constructs for understanding depression among immigrants. Method: The association between visa status and acculturation with depression status among immigrants residing in the United States was examined. Visa status was operationalized as favorable and unfavorable. Acculturation was measured as English language proficiency and diet change. Depression was assessed as the presence of depressive symptoms or symptoms suppressed by antidepressants. Results: Results showed that immigrants with unfavorable visa statuses have higher levels of depression compared to favorable visa status holders. Also, English language proficiency was associated with higher levels of depression among unfavorable visa holders compared to favorable visa status holders. Lower dietary acculturation was associated with a higher level of depression among unlimited family, refugee, diversity, and other visa holders. Conclusions: Different visa categories appeared to have unique patterns of association with depression depending on their acculturation level and type.