The Consequences of Migration and Displacement for Mental Health: A Qualitative Study of River Nomadic Communities

This study explores the psychosocial consequences of recurrent environmental displacement among river-nomadic (Bede) communities in Bangladesh, emphasizing how cyclical mobility, ecological degradation, and social marginalization interact to shape mental health and resilience. Methods:A qualitative phenomenological approach was adopted to capture lived experiences of displacement and adaptation.Data were collected through twelve in-depth interviews, including one focus group discussion conducted across three Bede settlements along the Jamuna River during the 2025 monsoon season.Thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's ( 2006) reflexive six-phase framework was applied using NVivo 14 to identify patterns of meaning related to livelihood disruption, psychosocial distress, and coping strategies. Results:We constructed six major themes: income-driven relocation, environmental hazards as displacement triggers, the cumulative physical and emotional toll of recurrent displacement, negotiation and reputation as safety mechanisms, culturally rooted coping and adaptive resilience strategies, and aspirations for stability.Participants described chronic uncertainty, physical strain, and emotional exhaustion, yet also revealed strong communal solidarity, faith-based coping, and adaptive decision-making. Conclusions:The findings highlight that displacement among river nomads is a continuous and multifaceted psychosocial exposure rather than a single event.Sustainable interventions should integrate mobile, community-based mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services with environmentally informed livelihood programs and inclusive governance.This research contributes empirical evidence to the emerging discourse on climate-related migration and mental health, emphasizing the need for culturally grounded, mobility-sensitive approaches for marginalized riverine populations.