Is self-compassion relevant for refugees? A cross-sectional study of the relationship between self-compassion and depression among Kurdish refugees in Norway

Abstract

Extensive research presents self-compassion as beneficial for mental health in a wide range of samples. However, knowledge about the role of self-compassion for mental health in refugee population is scarce. The purpose of this exploratory cross-sectional study was to explore the association between self-compassion and depression in a sample of Kurdish refugees in Norway (N = 106, 59.4% women). An online survey including questions about post-migration work-related stress, the Self-Compassion Scale Short-Form (SCS-SF), and Major Depressive Inventory (MDI) was distributed. The results showed that self-compassion was strongly associated with depressive symptoms (r = −0.61, p < .01). In a multiple regression analysis, work-related stress (β = −0.24, p < .001) and negative subscale of self-compassion compassion (β = .54, p < .001) predicted unique variance in depression. A moderation analysis using Hayes “Power” macro showed that level of self-compassion did not moderate the effects of post-migration work-related stress on depressive symptoms. The results indicate that even though self-compassion contributed significantly to levels of depression, it could not fully protect against post-migration risk factors. The study may provide a useful framework for guiding research, clinical practice, and mental health prevention in refugee populations.