Migrant Live-in Caregivers Mental Health in Canada

Empirical evidence suggests rapid health decline among temporary migrant workers but there is limited knowledge about their mental health. This study explored live-in care givers’ (LCs) mental health and its determinants. Using a mixed methods design, a purposeful sample of 30 LCs was recruited. Data were collected through a selfcompleted questionnaire. A third of participants reported their mental health as poor or fair. Almost half experienced major depression. The poor mental health was associated with the average working hours and living accommodation. The average resiliency scores was moderately high and appeared to function as a protective factor against mental illness. Our findings suggest LCs are at risk of compromised mental health associated to their substandard working and living conditions. These conditions originates from violation of employment contracts, unfair employment practices, and the lack of enforcement of LCs’ legal and human rights.