Mental Health In Immigrant Youth: A Case Study

“A key in addressing primary prevention of mental health in [immigrant youth] is to shift the paradigm to focus on resiliency and on strength-based approaches rather than on risks and deficits” (Cohen, Chavez, & Chehimi, 2010, p. 389). This approach can actually work with any culture or ethnic background because when exploring the needs of the patient a full analysis of their background will take place. Culturally rich backgrounds do not just apply to immigrants or people of color; each individual’s upbringing may convey preferences based on their religion, spiritualty, personal values and cultural mores. According to Cohen, Chavez, and Chehimi (2010), focusing on preventative measures that encompass mental wellbeing needs to encompass an …show more content…
Efforts to minimize the stigma of mental illness should be taken into consideration across the board. With 1 in 5 in our country suffering from some form of mental illness primary prevention efforts need to be relevant and timely. Veterans returning from combat may have unique personal and family needs; counseling to reintegrate into society and family counseling or job skill training are good primary prevention efforts addressing the current rates of domestic violence and veteran suicides. Young individuals need awareness and access to the supports that will enrich their mental wellness. These include integration and inclusion strategies for immigrants in K-12 schools and neighborhoods that foster healthy social activities such as community centers. Nonprofits and organizations helping immigrant youth should have the opportunity to discuss their constituents’ unique needs with schools and local government, helping to direct programs that foster their healthy integration into society while remaining culturally sensitive. Youth, in general, need the opportunities to foster healthy relationships within society that allow them to advance their personal health and goals for the