Immigrants in the United States face a unique set of challenges that significantly impact their mental health. These challenges include acculturation stress, discrimination, fear of deportation, and barriers to accessing healthcare services. The mental health of immigrants is a critical issue that intersects with public policy, healthcare provision, and human rights. Garcini et al. (2016) highlight, undocumented immigrants are particularly vulnerable, facing significant psychological stress that is compounded by their legal status. Valentn et al. (2020) apply the Minority Stress Theory to understand the mental health of undocumented Latinx immigrants, providing a framework to explore how societal and systemic pressures exacerbate mental health issues. This paper argues that addressing the mental health needs of immigrants is not only a matter of public health, but also a critical aspect of ensuring social justice and equity.
The mental health of immigrants has far-reaching implications for public policy. Effective integration of immigrants into society is not possible without addressing the mental health disparities they face. These disparities affect educational outcomes, employment, and the overall economic contribution of immigrants to society. …show more content…
By applying the Minority Stress Theory, it becomes evident that a multifaceted approach is necessary to tackle the systemic and societal barriers that exacerbate mental health disparities. Policymakers must consider targeted interventions that address both the symptoms and root causes of mental health challenges faced by immigrants. Ensuring the mental well-being of immigrants is not only a matter of public health, but also a crucial step towards achieving a more equitable and inclusive