International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Exploring Substance Use among Low-Wage Migrant Workers in Mauritius: A Qualitative Study

There is little research conducted regarding substance abuse among low-wage migrant workers working in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). However, this phenomenon should not be taken lightly as it is a public health and social concern. Migrant workers often experience structural and psychosocial vulnerabilities in terms of low wages, precarious working environment, social isolation, discrimination and little access to support services which open the door to substance misuse. This qualitative research investigates how migrant workers use substance abuse particularly alcohol and cigarettes as coping mechanism to overcome emotional distress, loneliness and economic difficulties. Semi- structured interviews were conducted with 50 migrant workers working in different sectors such as construction, manufacturing, agriculture, hospitality, domestic care, seafood processing, cleaning services and retail sectors. Snowballing sampling was used to reach participants. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis developed Braun and Clarke six step framework. Four major themes emerged from this research as follows: (1) Substance use as a coping strategy against financial hurdles; (2) Substance use to overcome emotional distress and loneliness; (3) Substance use as short term escape against work pressure and burnout; and (4) Peer pressure and normalizing substance use. Despite, being aware of the negative health effects, many migrants reported their difficulties in putting a halt to substance use due to poor support, stress and addiction. The findings emphasize the need for multi-level strategies that comprises of work-based interventions, psychosocial support programs, substance use prevention and education programs. Professionals such as Social workers and Migrant care workers can be of great gelp in reducing substance abuse and improving the welfare of low-wage migrant workers.