Poor living and working conditions, social isolation, and coping strategies of migrant laborers in Hanoi, Vietnam

This study examines the impact of living and working environments on physical and mental health of rural-to-urban migrant laborers in Hanoi, Vietnam. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 84 migrant laborers. Three major themes emerged from the data. First, most migrant laborers endured very poor living and working conditions without health insurance or benefits, and many developed physical health problems. Second, most migrant laborers felt socially isolated as "outsiders" of the city, some experienced visible discrimination due to their status as migrants, leading to migrant laborers constantly feeling lonely, anxious, and homesick. Finally, since their economic and social resources in the city were very limited, most migrant laborers coped with physical and psychological health issues primarily by remaining very mindful about diet and sleep habits, and minimize risky behaviors. If they did fall sick, they often chose self-treatment or returning to their home town for treatment in order to cut medical cost. In all, migrant laborers in Hanoi, Vietnam experienced a very difficult life; yet, most chose to endure this life to make money to support family in their home town.