View article

Institutionalized racism exists in Canada and is reflected in current immigration policies, particularly policies surrounding procedures in attaining employment. Social and structural inequities sustained within this system serve the interests of some individuals through the marginalization of others. At present, research reveals that new immigrants face a number of challenges upon entering into the Canadian workplace, such as the loss of personal and occupational identity, language barriers, acculturation, discrimination, stigma, alienation, deskilling, social exclusion as well as competition and prejudice from native-born Canadians. As a result, immigrant workers are at significantly greater risk for a range of mental health disorders. Such indicators clearly demonstrate the need to draw on current knowledge and evidence to provide government leaders, health care providers, and policy makers the necessary resources to help immigrants successfully overcome cross-cultural barriers. This focused review aims to discuss and highlight challenges that immigrant workers experience upon settling in Canada, mental health concerns associated with these challenges and strategies shown to help ease the transitional process.