Over the past decade, significant shifts in immigration laws and policies have profoundly affected Latinx communities in the United States. This includes changes to asylum laws, the removal of Temporary Protected Status, family separations at the border, and threats to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Such policies have created an environment of heightened psychological distress among Latinx individuals, including adults and youth, leading to elevated levels of depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and social disconnection (Barajas-Gonzales, Ayon, Torres, 2018; Greene, 2018).

Understanding Psychological Violence

Researchers have identified the emotional turmoil stemming from these policies as a form of psychological violence. This term aligns with the World Health Organization’s definition, which frames violence as the intentional use of force or power that results in psychological harm (WHO, 1996). The ongoing enforcement of aggressive immigration policies exacerbates this emotional toll, manifesting as fear and anxiety within affected families (Barajas-Gonzales, Ayon, Torres, 2018).

Examples of Impactful Enforcement Practices

Recent policies, such as allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) into sensitive locations like schools and hospitals, have created an atmosphere of fear within the Latinx community. This change not only deters individuals from accessing essential services but also influences their psychological well-being. Many families report opting for telehealth services due to anxiety about potential encounters with ICE while seeking support. Parents within these communities have received notices from schools informing them about precautions in place for possible ICE raids, which has led to rigorous discussions about the safety of sending children to school.

The Daily Reality of Fear and Trauma

For numerous Latinx immigrants, the constant fear of deportation or family separation has become a regular part of life. This chronic state of anxiety is correlated with severe psychological outcomes and disruptions in overall functioning. Continuous exposure to such stress can lead to complex trauma that is challenging to mitigate, often surpassing the effects of isolated traumatic experiences.

The Long-term Consequences of Psychological Violence

The effects of persistent psychological violence are particularly concerning for Latinx communities due to their prolonged exposure to such chronic stressors. This has led to a growing recognition of complex PTSD (C-PTSD) as a significant condition that encompasses extensive symptoms, affecting self-perception, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships. Furthermore, emerging research highlights the concept of moral injury, which occurs when individuals witness or are involved in events that contradict their moral values, resulting in feelings of shame, anger, and disconnection.

The Role of Dehumanizing Language

Language plays a critical role in shaping public perceptions of immigration. Terms like “illegals” and phrases such as “migrant invasion” dehumanize undocumented individuals, often portraying them as threats to societal resources. This narrative can further justify harsh immigration enforcement and policy changes, aligning with historical patterns that precede larger-scale violations of human rights.

Steps Forward for Mental Health Professionals

Addressing the psychological impact of these issues requires active engagement from mental health practitioners. Comprehensive documentation and a nuanced understanding of the experiences of immigrant populations are vital. Questions that professionals should contemplate include: Are behaviors indicative of ADHD, or are they manifestations of trauma-related stress? Is anxiety generalized, or is it linked to specific fears about family safety?

Being able to discern between these factors is crucial for effective intervention and support tailored to the nuanced needs of these communities.