Abstract

Background: Migratory processes may affect mental health. Data on the health status of migrants are necessary for an adequate public health approach. Aim: To describe the prevalence of anxious and depressive symptoms in Colombian migrants living in Chile and to compare it with the Chilean population. Material and Methods: Beck and BDI scales for depression and BAI anxiety scale were applied to 1,932 participants living in Arica, Antofagasta and Santiago. Of these, 976 participants (51% women) aged 35 +/- 10 years were first generation Colombian migrants and 956 participants aged 34 +/- 14 years were Chilean. Results: The scores for depressive and anxious symptoms were higher in Chileans than in Colombians. Women reported worse mental health in both groups. Chilean and Colombian respondents residing in Arica and Antofagasta had a higher degree of anxiety and depression than their counterparts residing in Santiago. Conclusions: Chileans have worse mental health indicators than Colombian migrants. There are differences by sex and city of residence.