Immigrant mental health: Supporting well-being through equity and access

The mental health of immigrants is a vital but often overlooked aspect of comprehensive care. Individuals who immigrate to a new country face layered challenges that can significantly impact their mental health and well-being, including cultural and language barriers, social isolation and experiences of xenophobia or racism. Many also cope with trauma related to their migration journey, especially those seeking asylum or refugee status.

Behavioral health providers play a key role in supporting immigrant communities by offering culturally responsive and trauma-informed care, engaging in community outreach and creating welcoming, affirming spaces with resources and information to support their transition.

“Immigration is more than a logistical move—it’s an emotional and psychological upheaval,” said Dr. Kari Wolf, CEO of the Behavioral Health Workforce Center and chair of psychiatry at SIU School of Medicine. “Many individuals carry deep trauma, face cultural loss and navigate profound isolation. Behavioral health systems have a responsibility to respond with care that acknowledges the full weight of that journey.”

Understanding the unique stressors of immigration

The immigration process is inherently stressful. The loss of familiar customs, social networks and language can lead to feelings of displacement or disconnect. For many, the process of adjusting to a new culture while preserving one’s identity and values creates ongoing internal tension.

Experiences of xenophobia and racism—whether direct or systemic—further contribute to psychological distress. These experiences can appear as microaggressions, exclusion, media rhetoric or overt discrimination, and their mental health impacts can be long lasting.

How behavioral health providers can help

Improving outcomes for immigrant and refugee populations begins with providing accessible, inclusive, intentional care. This includes:

• Language accessibility
  Offer materials in multiple languages, ensure interpretation services are available and hire multilingual staff, which can greatly improve access to care and reduce confusion or fear.
• Culturally and trauma-responsive care
  Clinicians should be trained in culturally competent and trauma-informed care practices. Understanding the cultural context of a patient’s lived experience enhances trust, communication and effectiveness of care.
• Community partnerships and resource sharing
  Partnering with immigrant advocacy organizations helps providers stay informed, build trust and connect patients with relevant services. Consider offering or integrating resources from:
  • The Coalition for Immigrant Mental Health
  • Immigrants Rising – Mental Health Resources for Undocumented People
  • City of Chicago – Mental Health Resources for Immigrants
• Addressing cost and confidentiality barriers
  Financial concerns and fear of legal repercussions often prevent immigrants—especially those who are undocumented—from seeking care. Behavioral health systems must clearly communicate confidentiality protections and offer sliding-scale or low-cost services when possible.

A path toward healing and belonging

Supporting immigrant mental health is essential to advancing health equity. The emotional toll of migration doesn’t end with arrival; systemic and psychological challenges often persist long after. Behavioral health professionals are uniquely positioned to offer healing-centered, inclusive care that fosters belonging and resilience.

“When we care for immigrants with intention and compassion, we’re not just helping individuals—we’re strengthening families and communities,” Dr. Wolf said.