A great part of Latin America is currently taunted by political, economic, and social instability. This critical situation is pushing families to migrate in search of more favorable life circumstances. Many parents are motivated and determined to leave their home countries searching for a ‘better and safer future’ for themselves and their children. Nevertheless, delving into the adventure of migration brings both opportunities and great challenges. Migrating with family can be a complex and transformative journey for each of the family members.
Acculturation Stress: Balancing Two Worlds
Acculturation stress arises as families adapt to a new cultural environment while attempting to preserve their cultural identity. Parents may find themselves torn between maintaining their traditions and ensuring their children assimilate into the host society. This balancing act can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of displacement within the family.
The acquisition of the new language is an important part of adapting to the new culture. Often, there has been some level of exposure to the new language before but never an experience of total immersion. Having to speak a different language after migrating can have short and long-term consequences. An example of short-term consequence for parents is the fact that their level of English may not be enough for their dream job or even enough for basic activities such as going to the supermarket. Meanwhile, a long-term consequence may be that children refuse to speak their native language at home in their attempt to fit in to the new culture, rejecting their native tongue.
Family Separation: Torn Threads of Connection
One of the most poignant challenges faced by Latin American families in migration is the separation from extended family members. The strong emphasis on familial bonds in Latin American culture intensifies the emotional toll of being separated from loved ones. The concept of family means close and extended members such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and even close friends. Family represents a group of essential beings in the lives of Latin Americans. Most celebrations in Latin American countries like holidays, birthdays or simply weekends are spent with the big part of the family and not only the immediate members. Feelings of isolation, sadness, and a longing for the familiarity of home develop when distance separates migrants and their loved ones. Many times, these feelings lead to anxiety or even depression. Being far away creates an emptiness inside after leaving family members thousands of kilometers away. Nowadays and thanks to the advances of technology maintaining contact with our loved ones is much easier. However, a video cannot substitute the special moments that used to be shared in person.
Educational Transitions: Navigating New Learning Landscapes
Children in migrant families often encounter educational challenges in adapting to a new schooling system and language. The struggle to meet academic expectations, coupled with the pressure to integrate into a different educational culture, and do everything in an alien language can result in stress and frustration for both parents and children. Frequently, these children need to receive additional support in class to equal their classmate’s academic level which can affect their self-esteem. At school they also face difficulties making friends since they speak another language, they come from a different culture, and most classmates know each other since preparatory school having formed their friend groups.
Financial Strain and Discrimination: Scarcity in isolation
Many Latin American families migrate in pursuit of improved economic opportunities. However, the journey is often marked by economic instability, job uncertainties, and financial stress. The burden of providing for the family’s needs can lead to heightened stress levels, impacting the mental health of parents and children alike.
The experience of discrimination and prejudice in the host country can be a significant source of stress for Latin American families. Whether facing subtle biases or overt discrimination, the constant navigation of unfamiliar societal norms can contribute to feelings of alienation, anxiety, and a diminished sense of self-worth. Language once again is an important factor when it comes to adjustment and discrimination. When speaking the foreign language proficiently is leveled with the efficiency and ability of a person it becomes difficult to prove capability or competence in any other area. Migrants can be discriminated in their workplaces just because their level in the host language is not proficient.
Legal Uncertainty: Living in Limbo
Uncertainty surrounding legal status and the fear of deportation are constant companions for many Latin American families. The persistent anxiety about their residency status can lead to chronic stress, affecting mental health and exacerbating existing challenges. Affording the cost of visas, health insurance, education and rental expenses is a big load for migrating parents increasing with every child in the family. When a visa is about to expire, stress starts building up to find a residence pathway and afford the high expenses that come along with it.
The mental health challenges faced by migrating Latin American families are complex and multifaceted. It is crucial to recognize and address these challenges systematically, incorporating culturally sensitive approaches and support systems. By fostering a holistic understanding of the unique struggles experienced by these families, we can work towards creating environments that promote mental well-being and resilience during the transformative journey of migration. Additionally, advocating for accessible mental health services and community support can play a vital role in assisting Latin American families as they navigate the complexities of their new lives.