Abstract
This study examined depression, stress, and anxiety and explored the complex factors that may influence Somali women’s psychological well-being. The study surveyed 53 subjects identified as Somali women aged 18 to 69 years old living in a major Metropolitan area in the Upper Midwest United States. Three research questions focused on investigating whether a depressed mood correlates with the severity of trauma, identifying what causes elevated anxiety, and assessing the significance of stress among Somali women. This research was critical to identify the mental health perceptions and the obstacles these women may have. The surveyed subjects reported severe depression mood, including changes in sleeping patterns, appetite changes, tiredness or fatigue, and loss of interest of higher severity, which highlighted the significant emotional distress and depressive symptoms experienced by this group. On moderate stress and elevated anxiety, the study also found moderately high frustration related to being unable to support oneself financially and worrying about family members who were separated, with some individuals deeply affected by the separation. The sadness of not reuniting with their family members was common, underscoring the emotional toll of such circumstances. This quantitative study extends the research on Somali women’s mental health by utilizing a quantitative measure of depression, stress, and anxiety while focusing on additional factors, including cultural stigmas and community integration, which are widely under-researched. Future research can provide a more comprehensive understanding of depression, stress, and anxiety among Somali women and contribute to the development of effective interventions and policies to support their mental health.
Advisor
Deepa Oommen
Committee Member
Aaron Peterson
Date of Degree
2024
Language
english
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Program of Study
Educational Doctorate Degree
Department
Educational Leadership
College
Education
Recommended Citation
Khadra, Hussien. (2024). Mental Health Among Somali Women in the United States [Doctoral dissertation, Minnesota State University, Mankato]. Cornerstone: A Collection of Scholarly and Creative Works for Minnesota State University, Mankato. https://cornerstone.lib.mnsu.edu/etds/1450/
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