The journey of immigration is a complex and deeply personal experience that can have profound effects on our mental health. Beltsiou (2016) states that immigration deeply shapes our psychological experience. Immigrants may face numerous challenges that can affect their inner self, such as identity conflicts, discrimination, and economic hardships (George et al, 2015).
Through a psychodynamic lens, we can explore the intricate interaction between the conscious and unconscious elements as immigrants navigate the challenges of resettlement and acculturation.
The Unconscious Impact of Immigration
The process of adapting to a new culture can be particularly challenging for immigrants, as they face multiple stressors, including loss of social support, cultural conflicts, economic uncertainty, language barriers, and even discrimination and trauma, for those fleeing difficult circumstances (WHO, 2023; Rezene, 2024).
Immigration often triggers a process of mourning and loss, as individuals leave behind familiar environments, relationships, and cultural identities. This separation can awaken early attachment experiences and unresolved conflicts from childhood. The psyche may respond with defense mechanisms such as denial or idealization of the home country, or conversely, devaluation of one's cultural roots in an attempt to assimilate rapidly (Beltsiou, 2016).
Acculturation stress significantly impacts the mental health of immigrants in Canada, often leading to emotional problems and psychological distress. Research shows that about 29% of immigrants reported experiencing emotional problems and 16% reported high levels of stress within their first years in Canada (Robert & Gilkinson, 2012; Rezene, 2024).
The process of acculturation can be particularly stressful, as immigrants grapple with forming a new identity that integrates aspects of their home culture with Canadian norms. This internal struggle may manifest as anxiety, depression, or emotional problems, with studies showing that often immigrants report emotional issues within their first four years in Canada (Rezene, 2024).
Therapeutic Considerations
For therapists working with immigrant populations, a psychodynamic approach can offer deep insights into the complex emotional landscape of the immigration experience. It's essential to create a safe space where individuals can explore their feelings without judgment.
Akhtar (1999) suggests that psychodynamic therapists working with immigrants should maintain cultural neutrality while respecting cultural differences and helping clients separate cultural from intrapsychic conflicts. At the same time, it is fundamental to validate feelings of dislocation, interpret nostalgia, accept dysfunctional individuation and family involvement, and address polyglotism, if possible, providing culturally specific services.
The Rogerian approach, founded on empathy and unconditional positive regard, can be particularly beneficial when addressing immigrant mental health, where the therapist will focus on creating a non-judgmental atmosphere where clients can freely express their experiences and emotions; providing empathetic listening, by attempting to understand the immigrant's unique perspective; promoting self-actualization and encouraging immigrants to explore their potential and find meaning in their new lives, and promoting cultural sensitivity, recognizing and respecting the client's cultural background (Chu, 2024).
From a Gestalt approach, focusing on present experiences and self-awareness, therapists can also offer valuable tools for addressing immigrant mental health. Focusing on the here-and-now, by emphasizing current experiences, the therapist can help immigrants process immediate challenges and emotions related to their relocation; addressing unfinished business, since many immigrants carry unresolved issues from their past; enhancing awareness, and increasing bodily and emotional awareness that can help clients better understand and manage the stress associated with their new life circumstances; and finally through integration of experiences, the therapist can assist immigrants in integrating their past experiences with their present reality, fostering a more cohesive sense of self (Center for Mindful Psychotherapy, 2024).
WHO (2023) also highlights the importance of social and community support in this context. The disruption of social networks during immigration can leave individuals feeling isolated and unsupported. Rebuilding these support systems can be challenging, yet crucial for mental well-being. Thus, referrals to network groups and cultural organizations may be important.
In conclusion, the mental health journey of immigrants to Canada is a multifaceted process that involves conscious and unconscious factors. A culturally sensitive approach that respects the client's background while helping them navigate their new reality is fundamental. By understanding these dynamics and applying psychodynamic techniques, therapists can better support newcomers in their transition, while fostering resilience, supporting social connections, and promoting mental well-being.
References
Akhtar, S. (1999). Immigration and Identity: Turmoil, Treatment, and Transformation. Book.
Beltsiou, J. (2016). Immigration in Psychoanalysis: Locating Ourselves. Book.
Chu, H. (2024). Migrant and Person-Centered Approach.
George, U. et al (2015). Immigrant Mental Health, A Public Health Issue: Looking Back and Moving Forward.
Center for Mindful Psychotherapy (2024). Immigration and Acculturation Differences.
Rezene, S. (2024). Arrival to Adjustment: The Mental Health Journey of Canadian Immigrants.
Robert, A., Gilkinson, T. (2012). Mental Health and Well-Being of Recent Immigrants in Canada: Evidence from the Longitudinal Survey of Immigrants to Canada.
WHO (2023). Five Key Themes for Improved Mental Health Care for Refugees and Migrants.
More information in Toronto:
CAMH - The Immigrant and Refugee Mental Health Project