Impacts of COVID-19 on African Migrants' Wellbeing, and Their Coping Strategies in Urban and Regional New South Wales, Australia: a Qualitative Study.

Abstract

As the COVID-19 pandemic response continues to evolve, the need to protect more vulnerable populations in society becomes more apparent. Studies are still emerging on how different population groups have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study explored the impact of COVID-19 for African migrants in New South Wales, Australia, and their coping strategies. We employed inductive, exploratory qualitative interpretive research design using individual semi-structured in-depth interviews with 21 African migrants. COVID-19 lockdowns disrupted the African sense of community. Social isolation, financial insecurity due to joblessness, or reduced working hours led to stress, frustration, anxiety, sadness, loneliness, and depression. On the other hand, COVID-19 lockdowns allowed for more family time, reflecting, and appreciating the gift of life and personal intellectual growth. Despite such challenges, there was much community support, especially from religious organisations. Support from government agencies was available, but access was hampered by misinformation, digital literacy, and immigration status. Holding on to religion and faith was a key coping mechanism, followed by indulging in self-care practices such as healthy eating, exercise, Yoga, meditation, sleep, and limited interaction with social media. The COVID-19 lockdown disrupted the collectivist culture of African migrants and had untoward socioeconomic impacts that affected their wellbeing, many of which reflect an exacerbation of pre-existing inequities. To ensure that African migrant COVID-19-related health and wellbeing needs are met, the African migrant community must be actively involved in every facet of the NSW COVID-19 and other future outbreak response efforts.