The Impacts of Housing and Neighbourhood Environments on the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Somali Refugees and Immigrants Living in Etobicoke, Toronto

Abstract

<p>This research study aims to understand how housing conditions and neighbourhood environments in Etobicoke, Toronto, can impact Somali refugees’ and immigrants’ mental health and wellbeing. This includes considering factors such as access to secure and supportive housing, neighbourhood safety, transportation and greenspaces. Using a qualitative research design, this study interviewed six Somali refugees and immigrants living in Etobicoke, Toronto. Based on the research findings, Somali refugees and immigrants In Etobicoke live in substandard housing conditions, experience a lack of neighborhood safety and security and receive inadequate support from landlords or building and housing management. As a result, this directly correlates and links housing conditions, neighbourhood environments and adverse mental health and wellbeing outcomes for Somali refugees and immigrants living in Etobicoke, Toronto.</p>