Abstract
Background: Nearly one-in-ten Sri Lankans are employed abroad as International migrant workers (IMW). Very little
is known about the mental health of adult members in families left-behind. This study aimed to explore the impact
of economic migration on mental health (common mental disorders) of left-behind families in Sri Lanka.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey using multistage sampling was conducted in six districts (representing 62% of
outbound IMW population) of Sri Lanka. Spouses and non-spouse caregivers (those providing substantial care for
children) from families of economic migrants were recruited. Adult mental health was measured using the Patient
Health Questionnaire. Demographic, socio-economic, migration-specific and health utilization information were
gathered.