As a result of the globalization process that is taking place all over the world during the last two or three decades, a strong pattern of migration is being observed in all regions of the world. This pattern usually is observed from emerging countries toward industrialized nations. Needless-to-say, this migration process is making a big impact in many nations of the European Union such as Spain, Germany, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

In general, migrants go to industrialized nations with the hope of improving their socioeconomic conditions; however, they also bring with them language, religion, norms and heritage, that is their culture. Additionally, the migration process produces "acculturation stress", and this stress could lead to development of psychiatric conditions such as posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, substances use and abuse, alcoholism, suicide, etc. At times, however, migrants are capable to adjust well and, thus, to integrate with the host society.

It is, therefore, important for psychiatrists and other mental health professionals to understand the impact of migration vis-à-vis the development of "acculturative stress" as well as psychiatric disorders. This knowledge will permit psychiatrists and other mental health professional to more appropriately and effectively diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders in these migrant groups.