"We feel like it was better back home:" Stress, Coping, and Health in a US Dwelling African Immigrant Community

Background. This study examines stress and stress management from the perspective of African immigrants in southwestern Pennsylvania. Our research questions explore how participants define stress, the most common causes of stress, manifestations of stress, and common strategies for stress management. Methods. We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional, qualitative study with 34 African immigrants. Data were collected via three focus groups. Qualitative data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed to identify common themes. Results. Five major types of stressors included: remittances, financial and job-related challenges, children, disconnected families, and unrealized expectations. Participants reported both physical and mental manifestations of stress and used both group-based and individual-focused coping strategies. Discussion. African immigrants suffer from sources of stress that are uniquely attributed to their cultural background, immigration modalities, acculturation processes, and unrealized expectations. Health care providers must be aware of these sources of stress and potential management strategies.