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A recent study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry has revealed alarming mental health challenges faced by skilled immigrants working in jobs that do not match their qualifications. The study, co-authored by Shu-Ping Chen, Associate Professor at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, emphasizes the significant psychological toll of underemployment on immigrants, particularly in precarious work environments.
According to Chen, skilled immigrants who take on jobs for which they are vastly overqualified experience a host of mental health issues, including a loss of professional identity and increased stress. These jobs are often poorly paid, with irregular hours, minimal benefits, and few opportunities for advancement, creating an environment ripe for mental distress.
“The majority of research on precarious employment tends to generalize across different populations. Our study, however, focuses specifically on immigrant workers—an often overlooked group,” Chen explained.
The study, which involved interviews with 42 immigrants in precarious employment, found that 81% were overqualified for their positions. Many cited obstacles such as non-recognition of foreign credentials, lack of professional networks, and limited local work experience as barriers to securing employment in their field of expertise. These issues are particularly pronounced among health-care professionals, with many facing significant delays or outright rejection of their qualifications by Canadian regulatory bodies.
“Credential bridging programs, which help immigrants translate foreign qualifications into recognized Canadian credentials, would be a key step in addressing this problem,” Chen suggests.
Language and cultural barriers also present significant hurdles in the workplace. Immigrants often struggle with misunderstandings of Canadian workplace culture and norms, leading to performance issues and limited career progression. As a result, many begin to disengage from their colleagues, adopting a “negative mindset” that perpetuates a cycle of low self-esteem and poor job satisfaction.
“Many immigrants start to avoid workplace interactions and accept unfair treatment, which exacerbates their difficulties and mental distress,” Chen added. “Cultural awareness training for employers could help break this cycle and improve both workplace integration and overall mental well-being.”
Despite the significant mental health challenges, many immigrants in the study reported avoiding professional help. Concerns about being misunderstood or judged by mental health professionals, along with the stigma surrounding mental health within certain cultures, often prevent immigrants from seeking the support they need.
The study also points to the phenomenon of “deskilling,” where immigrants working in jobs below their qualifications lose their skills and confidence over time, further hindering their career prospects. This loss of professional identity, in turn, contributes to feelings of inadequacy and mental distress.
To address these issues, Chen and her collaborators have developed a series of online learning modules aimed at helping newcomers navigate Canadian workplace culture and understand their rights, including psychological safety at work. These modules will soon be piloted in collaboration with two Calgary-based agencies serving recent immigrants.
This research is part of a broader initiative to improve the working conditions and mental health of immigrant workers by identifying training gaps, evaluating available resources, and advocating for stronger policies to ensure fair job opportunities.
“The findings of this study shed light on the urgent need for systemic changes,” said Chen. “Governments, employers, and community organizations must come together to develop solutions that provide immigrants with fair opportunities and the support they need to thrive.”
For more information, refer to the full study: Janki Shankar et al, Mental health challenges of recent immigrants in precarious work environments — a qualitative study, Frontiers in Psychiatry (2024). DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1428276.
Disclaimer: This article is based on findings from a study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry (2024). The views expressed in the article are those of the study’s authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of any organization or institution.
