Resettled Bhutanese Refugees in Ottawa: What Coping Strategies Promote Psychological Well-Being?

BACKGROUND: Since 2008, Bhutanese refugees have been resettled in Canada, including Ottawa. This relocation and resettling process is associated with significant physical and psychological stress, as individuals acclimatize to a new country.

PURPOSE: To assess the relationship between coping strategies and psychological well-being of Bhutanese refugees resettled in Ottawa.

METHODS: A cross-sectional survey utilizing a convenience sample of adults (n = 110) was conducted in the fall of 2015 in Ottawa. Two tools, Brief COPE and general well-being schedule were used.

RESULTS: Bhutanese refugees were in moderate distress. Using multiple linear regression, age, education, and three coping strategies (positive reframing, self-blame, and venting) were identified as predictors of general well-being ( F (11, 96) = 3.61, p < .001, R2  = 21.2%). Higher levels of education and positive reframing were associated with greater general well-being scores, while self-blame and well-being between ages 41 and 50 years were inversely associated with general well-being.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that a broad intersectorial approach between nurses and partner agencies is needed to enhance the mental health of this population for better adjustment in the host country. Nurses could provide support and counseling to minimize the use of self-blame and venting and promote positive coping strategies.