Managing dual transitions: a qualitative study of the impact of immigration and parenthood on Indian immigrants to Australia

Any major life transition can present incredible challenges and struggles. When parenthood and immigration co-occur, many adjustments are required, and this poses a higher risk to mental well-being. This study examines the impact of the dual transition of parenthood and immigration in the perinatal period on the mental health of Indian immigrants to Australia. This study was conducted in the Western Sydney region using a qualitative design guided by interpretive description and purposive sampling. Thirteen in-depth interviews were conducted with nineteen participants, including six couple interviews, three with women alone, and four with community cultural informants. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The overarching theme “Living between two worlds” captured the participants’ journey through immigration and parenthood. Participants’ experiences were reflected in three sub-themes: “feeling different and not belonging,” “losing confidence,” and “feeling liberated,” highlighting the social and emotional impact of these transitions. Understanding the challenges faced during the dual transition and their emotional impact can guide health professionals in providing culturally sensitive perinatal care. The findings draw attention to the depth of emotions that immigrants experience and their impact on daily life during dual transitions. They emphasize the urgent need for change in clinical practice and advocate for a structured yet conversational assessment of the immigration experiences during the psychosocial assessments in the perinatal period. The analysis of the findings presents possible solutions for designing targeted interventions for immigrant populations and will help health professionals better understand and support immigrants. The inclusion of men has elucidated gender-specific stressors and support needs.