Albania and Kosovo-Albania immigrants’ perceptions of mental well-being and the psychological challenges faced in Malaysia

• Main Authors: Thartori, Voltisa, Ismail, Nik Ahmad Hisham
• Format: Article
• Language: English; English; English
• Published: Elsevier 2024
• Subjects: LA History of education
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/113016/1/113016_Albania%20and%20Kosovo-Albania.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/113016/2/113016_Albania%20and%20Kosovo-Albania_SCOPUS.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/113016/3/113016_Albania%20and%20Kosovo-Albania_WOS.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/113016/; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666623524000242?via%3Dihub; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmh.2024.100234

Background: Immigrants who relocate to a foreign country often face numerous stressors and challenges as they try to assimilate to a new culture. This transition can often have a significant impact on their mental well-being. In this qualitative study, we aim to explore and examine the life experiences of 16 Albanian and Kosovo-Albania immigrants who have settled in Malaysia, as well as those who previously resided in Malaysia but are now living in Australia and Albania. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate two main objectives: (i) to explore immigrants’ psychological problems and how they perceive and approach mental well-being; and (ii) to identify the challenges and barriers that immigrants face in Malaysia. Methods: The data was obtained using a qualitative phenomenological case study, using in-depth semi-structured interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed. Results: The study’s findings indicate that immigrants’ mental well-being is positively affected by inner peace, happiness, fulfilling family needs, a balanced life, and self-improvement. On the other hand, challenges related to visa and employment pass issues, difficulty in securing employment status, feeling like a foreigner, and lack of family support have a negative impact on their mental well-being. Implications: The study’s findings advocate for targeted support programmes to address the psychological challenges of Albanian immigrants. Prioritising inner peace and self-improvement benefits their mental well-being. Policymakers are encouraged to prioritise reducing employment pass difficulties and fostering an inclusive job market to improve employment opportunities for this community.