Identifying the effects of COVID-19 on the mental health of the visible minority essential workers and their coping strategies

Canada has made an extensive effort to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite all effort, however, some populations were hit harder by the COVID-19. Visible minorities, who often include immigrants and refugees have been disproportionately exposed to and affected by the COVID-19. Especially, the visible minority essential workers who are crucial for the country’s infrastructure including healthcare, law enforcement sector, retail food, transportation, and others were affected the most. They have been reported being more anxious, depressed, and sadder than their non-minority counterparts. Analysing Mental Health Research Canada polls and a series of interviews, we intend to identify the mental health problems the visible minority essential workers are facing due to the pandemic, factors affecting those, and their coping mechanism. The findings of the study will help develop appropriate support strategies for affected and at-risk visible minority essential workers.

Faculty Supervisor:

Turin Tanvir Chowdhury

Student:

Partner:

Mental Health Research Canada;Alberta International Medical Graduates Association

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Other services (except public administration); Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Calgary

Program: