Mood and Substance Use among Returned Michoacán Migrants: Perspective of Care Service Providers Cover Image

Estado de ánimo y consumo de sustancias de migrantes michoacanos retornados: perspectiva del personal que brinda servicios de atención
Mood and Substance Use among Returned Michoacán Migrants: Perspective of Care Service Providers

Author(s): Karla Yunuén Guzmán-Carrillo, Shoshana Berenzon-Gorn, Miriam Anahí Salazar-García, María Elena Rivera-Heredia, Marcela Tiburcio-Sainz, Sarahi Alanís-Navarro
Subject(s): Substance abuse and addiction, Health and medicine and law, Welfare services, Migration Studies
Published by: Transnational Press London
Keywords: return migration; substance use; mental health; service providers; health promotion;

Summary/Abstract: Return migration refers to the process whereby individuals return to their country of origin after having resided abroad. This transition entails significant challenges related to readaptation, which can adversely impact both physical and mental well-being. Among the primary difficulties reported by returnees are the need to adjust to new living conditions and the deterioration of their health, often associated with limited or absent access to medical care during their time abroad. Alcohol and drug use have been identified as coping strategies employed by some migrants in response to stress and loneliness, which in turn may increase their vulnerability. The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of professionals who provide psychological, legal, and administrative support to returned migrants, with a particular focus on the emotional impact of return, mental health care needs, and patterns of substance use. A qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with nine individuals who work directly with returnees. Thematic analysis revealed three central themes: (1) stressors and triggers associated with substance use, (2) barriers and opportunities for addressing migrants' mental health needs, and (3) types of support provided to return migrants. Participants emphasized the importance of preventive interventions that offer guidance and promote the development of psychosocial skills. The implementation of health promotion and risk prevention programs is essential to enhance the well-being of returned migrants.

  • Issue Year: 7/2026
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 133-148
  • Page Count: 16
  • Language: Spanish
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