International migration, food insecurity, and mental health: a scoping review
Description
Background International migrants can experience food insecurity throughout their migratory trajectory in a context of exacerbated inequities. Food insecurity and migration are both social determinants of mental health, however, no scoping review has been conducted with a specific focus on the topic at a global level. Aim To identify and synthesize the available evidence on food insecurity and mental health among international migrants published between 2013 and 2023. Methods The scoping review was conducted according to guidelines by the JBI. Scientific databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, APA PsycArticles, Cinahl, ASSIA) and Google Scholar were searched (2013-Nov. 2023). A descriptive characterisation and thematic synthesis of the evidence were conducted. Results Seventy-one publications were identified. The evidence is mostly recent, quantitative, from the Global North, and part of broader, rather than specific, studies. Food insecurity is linked to mental health issues among international migrants, with qualitative evidence suggesting it exacerbates mental health problems, though quantitative studies do not establish causality or direction. Four mechanisms were identified to explain these associations. Conclusions Future research on the topic should analyse broader mechanisms of exclusion, cultural aspects of food insecurity, and the impact of some coping strategies on mental health.