The traumatic effects caused by immigration
Did you know that 29% of foreign-born children and 34% foreign born parents experienced trauma during the immigration process? Thousands of people from all over the world leave their homes in search of a better life for themselves and their families. But, along the way they may experience traumatic events related to the immigration process which can have lasting effects. Separation or loss of a family member, leaving behind a well loved home and community, re-adjusting to new and different culture, food, customs and lifestyle are things many immigrants face, which add to the difficulty of being an immigrant.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
One traumatic effect that is often caused by immigration is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (P.T.S.D). P.T.S.D is a condition that can occur after exposure to trauma and has lasting psychological effects including, sleep disturbance, vivid recalls of the event, disorganization, anxiety, and inability to function. It was originally found in war veterans and is now being diagnosed in patients regularly. If P.T.S.D. is left untreated people may turn to drugs or alcohol, they may develop anger issues and even severe depression. Immigrants
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One main cause of depression is if immigrants miss the home and families they may have had to leave behind. The trauma of loss and separation can be immense. If immigrants are fleeing their home country related to war or government prosecution, immigrants may feel depressed and worried for the fate of their country and any other family members still at home. It may also be very hard to adjust to a brand new culture. Imagine having to change the way you are, changing or learning a new language, adapting to new customs that are different than those back at home. May of these things can be very stressful and could possibly lead to depression, which could then develop into P.T.S.D