Latinx adults in the United States grappling with concerns about their documentation status, including the fear of deportation, exhibit lower levels of physical and mental well-being compared to those without such worries, reveals a recent study from the University of Michigan.
The research demonstrates a clear link between documentation status concerns and adverse health outcomes among Latinx individuals. Those burdened by apprehensions related to their legal status experience a notable decline in both physical and mental health, highlighting the distressing impact of such anxieties.
“Building a positive sense of community, whether amongst friends, family and neighbors, or organizations like churches and community centers, serves as a protective shield from anti-immigrant sentiments and systemic discrimination,” the researchers explain.
“Having a social support network promotes feelings of belonging, which is helpful to those navigating this country as Latinx immigrants.”
Under the radar
Estimates from the Migration Policy Institute indicate that the United States is home to approximately 11 million undocumented immigrants, with a significant majority being of Latino origin.
Despite the substantial size of this population, their access to vital resources supporting both physical and mental well-being remains remarkably limited. This disparity can be attributed to a combination of social, systemic, and linguistic barriers.
The undocumented status of individuals exacerbates these gaps in accessing essential resources, thereby increasing the likelihood of undiagnosed mental and physical health issues. The researchers engaged in conversations with nearly 500 Latino adults residing in Washtenaw County, Michigan, during the period of 2013-14.
“The goal of this data collection was to provide a snapshot of the health and mental health of the Latinx population of the county to increase awareness of the community’s needs and strengths, which can support program and intervention development as well as provide information to agencies and clinicians working with the community,” they conclude.
