Abstract:
Introduction: Psychological distress is a major problem of present era discussed
extensively in many refugee literatures. It is reported that 84% of Rohingya had been
emotionally distressed. In spite of that, individuals who cope effectively with such
situations can move from having psychological distress to being well. Limited research
work has been carried out on the psychological distress of the Rohingya refugees and
how they cope with their distress.
Objective: To determine the prevalence, determinants of psychological distress and the
coping strategies among the Rohingya Refugees in Klang, Malaysia.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 227 Rohingya Refugees in
Klang, Malaysia in March 2015. Psychological distress was assessed by using Kessler
Psychological Distress Scale (K10). Factors associated with psychological distress were
assessed using a 24-item questionnaire grouped into three main themes namely the work
related factors, personal and family related factors as well as security and protection
related factors. The validated Brief COPE inventory was used to assess coping
strategies. Data collection was by face to face interview. Univariate and Multivariate
analysis were used to determine associations, and p-value <0.05 was considered
statistically significant.
Results: The prevalence of psychological distress among Rohingya refugees in Klang
was 70.9%. Determinants of Psychological distress among Rohingya Refugees revealed
using the multiple logistic regression analysis include employment status (OR = 2.828,
95% CI=1.291–6.197, p = 0.009), overcrowded living conditions (OR = 0.164, 95%
CI=0.068–0.397, p < 0.001), behavioural disengagement coping strategy (OR = 15.759,
95% CI=2.028–122.4, p = 0.008) and acceptance coping strategy (OR = 8.369, 95%
CI=2.209–31.706, p = 0.002). (p-value <0.05).The most commonly used coping
strategies by the Rohingya refugees to deal with their psychological distress were
religion, positive reinterpretation, acceptance, and active coping.
Conclusion: This study confirmed the magnitude of psychological distress experienced
by Rohingya refugees in Klang Malaysia. In order, to reduce the levels of psychological
distress among the Rohingya refugees the multiple factors that affect it should be taken
into account. In addition to that, utilization of effective coping strategies among
Rohingya refugees might improve their psychological health. These points should be
taken into consideration for improving the training professionals who may encounter
Rohingya Refugees.
Keywords: Psychological Distress, Coping Strategies, Refugees, Distress, Rohingya
