Politicians around the world are increasingly using anti-immigrant sentiment to gain support, a trend especially visible in the US presidential election.

While the negative rhetoric against immigrants is well-known, less attention is paid to its impact on immigrants themselves. An article from New York University and a book titled Migration Stigma (MIT Press) highlight “migration stigma” as a harmful force linking anti-immigrant attitudes to the health of immigrants.

Politicization of migrants

“Migration stigma” pulls together the politicization of immigration and examines how it affects immigrants’ physical and mental health, the authors explain.

Being labeled a migrant can trigger negative consequences: stereotyping, “othering,” discrimination, and loss of social status, all of which result in stigma.

Stigma can take various forms, all harmful to immigrants’ health. Structural stigma occurs when laws or policies treat groups differently based on their status, leading to worse access to education, housing, health care, and jobs—all critical to health outcomes.

Subtle forms

Other forms of stigma may be subtler. Immigrants aware of negative stereotypes may feel shame and internalize these beliefs, increasing stress and leading to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. This can worsen PTSD among those who endured traumatic journeys.

Internalized stigma and fear of deportation may also deter immigrants from seeking medical attention and other services, affecting their health, job prospects, and educational opportunities.

“New immigrants who know the US is not very welcoming may avoid opportunities to maintain their health,” the authors say.

Focusing on the link between migration and stigma offers a chance to break the cycle of harmful policies and rhetoric. Since stigma involves labeling, stereotyping, “othering,” and loss of status, interventions can target any of these aspects.

“We can introduce new narratives to change labels or combat stereotypes, or encourage policymakers to enact anti-discrimination laws to protect access to health care and education,” they continue.

The authors also suggest that health professionals recognize that health and illness are influenced by social, political, and economic structures to avoid stigmatizing migrant patients.