As Mental Health Month unfolds, it serves as a poignant reminder of the profound mental health toll endured by individuals seeking asylum. At Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA), we witness firsthand the resilience and courage of program participants as they navigate the challenges of building a new life in the United States. Through our CARE (Counseling, Access, Referrals, and Education) for Newcomers program, we are committed to providing essential mental health services to support asylum-seekers and others seeking humanitarian protection in the United States. Amidst the complexities of migration and resettlement, firsthand stories spotlight the intersection of trauma, resilience, and hope. This month’s blog delves into their narratives, reflecting on the challenges they face and the transformative impact of mental health support. But first, we spoke with Lisa Ford, one of LSSNCA’s clinical therapists about the important role CARE plays in the transition and healing of asylum-seekers.
LSSNCA’s Role in Trauma-Informed Support
Many of CARE’s program participants have gone through traumatic experiences at home, during their journey, and upon arrival in the U.S. Many program participants are escaping life-and-death situations, taking significant risks to reach safety. Trauma related to domestic violence, witnessing the murder of a loved one, sexual assault, incarceration due to political reasons, and beatings are common experiences of program participants in their home countries. During their journey, many face kidnapping, deportation, second-time kidnapping, missing spouses while traveling, assault, and threats. Upon arrival, many are placed with ankle monitoring devices or other forms of surveillance by federal law enforcement, facing stigma as they join their new communities.
Cultural adjustment brings its own mental health challenges, compounded by the inability to work, pressure from families, and feelings of failure. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are the most common mental health challenges program participants face.
LSSNCA’s clinical therapists provide trauma-informed therapy, using a range of evidence-based treatment modalities. Often, our therapists identify potential trafficking during sessions, and refer those cases to an immigration attorney for follow up. We have seen remarkable changes and a start to healing journeys for many program participants.
Javier: Confronting Trafficking
Javier’s journey began in Honduras where he worked in agriculture and construction, hoping to provide for his family. Exploited by employers who preyed upon his vulnerable immigration status, Javier found himself trapped in a relentless cycle of abuse and exploitation, and ultimately, became a victim of human trafficking. In his therapy sessions with LSSNCA, Javier bravely confronted the trauma of his experiences, unraveling the layers of stress and anxiety that had engulfed him. Through a series of sessions, he worked to rebuild his sense of agency and empowerment, equipping him with the tools to advocate for his rights and break free from the shackles of exploitation. Javier found solace through the support from LSSNCA’s holistic approach to service provision. He navigated the complexities of the legal system, with the support of LSSNCA’s pro bono immigration attorney, ultimately securing a work visa and charting a new course for himself and his family.
Mary: Dreams Dashed Twice
Mary arrived in the U.S. nine years ago, immediately applying for asylum. As she awaited a verdict, she pursued education in IT and gained employment in the field. Three years later, her asylum application was denied, leading to a denial of work authorization. Mary’s journey took a harrowing turn as she grappled with the prospect of providing for her children, even considering prostitution. Despite facing immense challenges, Mary regained work authorization while awaiting her asylum appeal, although she couldn’t return to her IT career. Her struggle led to sleepless nights, food insecurity, and constant worry about her family’s future. With symptoms of depression and anxiety, Mary found hope in counseling sessions with an LSSNCA therapist. Trauma-informed therapy provided her with a supportive space to address stressors and gain a new perspective. Mary began to navigate her challenges with renewed resilience and determination to create a better life for her and her children.
Manizha: Relearning How to Make Decisions
Manizha, a survivor of trafficking from Tajikistan, came to LSSNCA in a state of vulnerability and despair. Enduring years of physical and sexual abuse, her trafficker suddenly died, giving her newfound autonomy and decision-making powers – something she hadn’t had in years. Due to her trauma, Manizha had a deep history of severe anxiety, depression, and suicide ideation; she struggled to get through the day without constant triggers. Engaging with LSSNCA’s CARE team, she embarked on an intensive journey of healing, guided by her clinical therapist. Through ongoing trauma-based therapy, Manizha developed coping skills, regained self-worth, and learned to advocate for herself. Despite the arduous process, Manizha has made remarkable progress, finding love, employment, and more ease in her new community.
LSSNCA is invested in wraparound wellness support for anyone on their migration journey. We have been fortunate to expand our Wellness Services to also better meet the needs of resettled Afghan program participants in Virginia through a recent grant. We were also recently named a subgrantee for the Case Management Pilot Program (CMPP), offering vital support and trauma-informed services for asylum-seekers, ensuring individuals and families have the assistance they need during immigration proceedings. CMPP, a voluntary program, provides essential services like mental health support, legal guidance, and connections to community services. To learn more about our programs, visit lssnca.org or stay in touch through our newsletter.
Serve Boldly 