7 Challenges First Generation Immigrants Face
This blog explains 7 types of mental health challenges the first-generation immigrants go through, and how they can navigate through the unique struggles.
Living Away from Home
The journey of immigration is unique to the individual, and living in a foreign country can be exciting and anxiety-provoking at the same time. First-generation immigrants are those who were born in one country and later migrated to another, and they can face unique challenges compared to those who are born, raised, and live in their home country. Adapting to a new culture while maintaining connections with their own culture and heritage is not an easy path. Navigating the complicated interplay between their roots and their host country, they go through a wide range of emotions and experiences that uniquely affect their mental and emotional well-being. Here are some unique mental health challenges that first-generation immigrants may encounter:
Mental Health Challenges Among First-Generation Immigrants
Acculturation Stress
Attempting to embrace the new surroundings culture, language, customs, and values while preserving the heart and spirit of their cultural identity can be one of the first barriers they may face. They often experience stress and anxiety while integrating into a new society due to challenges in understanding societal norms, navigating political and societal systems, and adjusting to new social dynamics.
Language Barriers
The language barrier is one of the most significant challenges immigrants face while integrating into a new country because speaking is a fundamental aspect of communication. Immigrants who do not speak the language of the host country may struggle to communicate effectively in various situations, which can lead to misunderstandings and frustrations. Language barriers can also limit access to essential services and resources they may need because they may face challenges when seeking healthcare, government assistance, or legal support, which can result in their potential exclusion from these services. Additionally, misunderstandings because of language barriers can cause unintentional offenses or miscommunications between immigrants and the host community. Overall, the inability to communicate effectively can leave them feeling isolated, frustrated, and limited in their access to resources and opportunities.
Identity and Belonging
Identity and a sense of belonging are central aspects of psychological well-being; however, the path for first-generation immigrants is complicated. Immigrants often find themselves navigating a fine balance between their original cultural identity and their new identity while adapting to the host country, and they may struggle to reconcile their cultural heritage and background with the dominant culture. Code-switching is a good example. The term refers to the practice of switching between languages and cultural behaviors based on social context. First-generation immigrants often end up adapting the code-switching skill to fit into the host country’s social environment. In the meantime, it can be mentally taxing and contribute to a sense of identity separation.
Lack of Family and Social Support
Living away from their home country, which means, a lot of times, they not only left their country but also their extended families and support systems. The separation can be detrimental, causing feelings of loneliness and isolation as they yearn for the emotional support of their loved ones back home, especially during difficult times or major life events. Additionally, they may experience the challenge of consistent social support from their support network at home as they adapt to their new identity and personality while integrating into the host country. Their families and friends from their home country may have a hard time understanding the individual’s journey of acculturation, and they may perceive their changes in personality, demeanor, and behaviors as a result of "fitting in" to the host country as disrespectful and insulting. Such conflicts can lead to feelings of confusion, frustration, and hopelessness.
Discrimination and Prejudice
Discrimination and prejudice based on their ethnicity, race, or accent can be profound. They may internalize negative stereotypes and negative experiences and feel powerless. These experiences can be a cause of feelings of humiliation, stress, and low self-esteem, making it challenging to adapt and integrate into the host society.
Economic Pressures
Many first-generation immigrants migrate to new countries in order to seek better economic opportunities, however the economic pressures and challenges in finding suitable employment add to the stresses they bear. Financial struggles can be a main cause of stress, anxiety, and depression. Not only securing a stable job, maintaining a visa is another challenge. Securing a valid visa costs time and money, and the consistent pressure can lead to extra stress and anxiety.
Trauma from Home Country
Some immigrants moved to the new country due to traumatic events, such as war, violence, and persecution back home, and the experiences can add further complexity to their mental and emotional well-being. Moreover, the process of migration itself can be very stressful because of leaving loved ones and familiar environments behind.
Addressing these unique challenges requires a holistic and empathetic approach that involves understanding and respecting the unique experiences of first-generation immigrants. Honoring their diverse experiences and backgrounds and fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging are necessary steps toward supporting their transformative journey.
I am Here for You
Living in the US as a first generation Asian immigrant, I have empathy and compassion for someone like you who have been hustling and bustling to establish your life away from your home country. I acknowledge these challenges first-generation immigrants face and I foster a safe space for you to alleviate the distinct challenges you face, and help you to release the pressure off of your shoulder while navigating through various life challenges.
My Background as a First Generation Immigrant
I am originally from Japan and have been in the States for almost 20 years through various experiences of being an international student, a visa-sponsored employee, and a partner to an American spouse. I’ve been navigating through my own life living internationally, and understand what it is like to live in a non-home country. Cultural identity is important for me, and to me, Taiko drumming (Japanese folk drums) is a way of keeping connected with my cultural roots. Taiko gives me so much joy not only through playing but also through the human connection. I speak both Japanese and English and provide bilingual therapy services as requested.
Help is just a click away. Schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation call with me today.
