Supporting Immigrant & Refugee Mental Health
Munisa Juma, LCPC
Mental health is deeply shaped by our lived experiences, and for immigrants and refugees, those experiences often include displacement, uncertainty, and complex questions about identity and belonging.
In a recent conversation with Munisa Juma, LCPC, who works with immigrant populations, one theme was clear: many individuals are carrying an emotional weight that often goes unseen.
The Hidden Struggles
Today, many immigrants, especially those from mixed-status families or with immigrant parents, are navigating ongoing stress and uncertainty.
Munisa shared that she’s seeing “chronic fear, anxiety, a lot of overwhelm, helplessness, and confusion” among her clients. For second-generation immigrants in particular, there are often deeper identity questions: Where do I belong? Am I safe here?
At the same time, many are also carrying concern for their families. “There’s fear not just for themselves,” Munisa explained, “but for their parents around detainment or deportation too.”
These stressors don’t just exist in isolation, they often spill into relationships. Differences in values or political beliefs can create tension among friends and family, adding another layer of emotional strain.
Barriers to Mental Health Care
Even when support is needed, accessing care isn’t always easy. Some clients struggle with trust, unsure if a therapist will truly understand their experiences or share values that make them feel safe. Munisa noted that clients may even ask directly about a therapist’s beliefs before feeling safe to open up with them.
Cultural stigma can also be a barrier. In some communities, therapy is unfamiliar or less accepted. However, there is a noticeable shift happening. Many second-generation immigrants are becoming more open to therapy and even encouraging their parents to try it too.
Helpful Tools & Strategies
While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, Munisa shared several helpful tools:
1. Creating a Sense of Safety & Preparedness
For some, having a plan can reduce anxiety. This might include knowing your rights, keeping important documents accessible, or discussing what to do in stressful situations. At the same time, Munisa emphasized that this approach isn’t for everyone, “it depends on the client and what feels right for them.”
2. Focusing on What You Can Control
“In really difficult spaces, the work often becomes grounding clients in what is within their control, even when so much feels uncertain,” Munisa shared.
3. Limiting Overexposure to News & Social Media
With constant updates and distressing headlines, many clients feel overwhelmed. Setting boundaries around media consumption can help protect mental well-being.
4. Leaning on Community
“Community is a pretty big piece right now,” Munisa explained. Whether through family, cultural networks, or trusted groups, connection can provide both practical support and emotional relief.
5. Finding the Right Therapist Fit
Building trust is essential. In some cases, this may even mean therapists being more open than usual to help clients feel safe. The relationship itself becomes a key part of healing.
Taking the First Step
For those who have been hesitant to start therapy, Munisa’s advice is simple: “Just start, and then you can figure out if it’s something that you like.”
Therapy doesn’t have to be perfect from the beginning. It’s okay to ask questions, explore different therapists, and learn what feels right for you.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
If you or someone you know is part of an immigrant or refugee community and is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or uncertain, support is here for you.
If you’ve been thinking about starting therapy, consider taking that first step today. Reach out to schedule a free consultation and begin finding the support that’s right for you.
