Today, on International Migrant Day, we shine a spotlight on the resilience of immigrant and refugee communities while raising awareness of the mental health challenges they often face. For migrant youth, the journey to a new life is complex and layered, with challenges arising before, during, and after migration. Despite these hurdles, many demonstrate remarkable resilience, especially when given access to supportive programs and communities.

Understanding the Mental Health Journey of Migrant Youth

Migration impacts everyone differently, but youth face unique challenges across three key phases:

• Premigration: Instability often begins before the journey, with disruptions to education, social roles, and family life.
• Migration: Separation from loved ones, uncertainty, and unstable living situations can increase vulnerability to mental health issues like depression or PTSD.
• Postmigration: Resettlement introduces new stressors, such as language barriers, social isolation, racism, and family poverty, alongside the struggle to adapt to a new cultural identity.

Despite these challenges, migrant youth have the potential to thrive when provided with the right tools, support systems, and opportunities. Research shows that immigrant youth often meet or exceed academic aspirations compared to their native-born peers when they receive proper care and encouragement.

The Rise Above Community Connections Program

In the summer of 2023, the Touchstone Foundation partnered with CWS – Lancaster Immigration & Refugee Program to bridge gaps in mental health support for migrant youth through the Rise Above Community Connections program. See our Facebook announcement here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15nYk1fbmV/

We hosted workshops connecting immigrant and refugee youth in Lancaster County with mental health professionals and local artists. These sessions were a space for cultural expression, personal growth, and resilience-building.

Here’s how we made an impact:

• Workshops on Mental Health: Participants engaged in group activities and presentations designed to explore mental health topics in relatable and accessible ways.
• Trauma and Resilience Session: Touchstone Foundation’s Executive Director, Anna Kennedy, guided students through practical “brain breaks” and breathing techniques to help them manage stress and foster resilience. See more about this session on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17xuXwHBtQ/
• Creative Exploration: Local artists led workshops where students expressed their cultural identity and personal stories through art and music. Special thanks to Wednesday for facilitating a dynamic musical workshop focused on creative writing and exploration.
• Plant Care as a Metaphor for Growth: Participants explored the parallels between nurturing plants and personal development, highlighting the importance of self-care and community. Get a glimpse of us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1WjFwQFHTj/

Why Connection Matters

For migrant youth, programs like these are about more than coping—they’re about thriving. They provide tools to navigate the challenges of postmigration life and create meaningful connections within their new communities. These workshops encouraged participants to embrace their diverse backgrounds and discover creative ways to express themselves, helping to reduce isolation and foster a sense of belonging.

Celebrating Resilience and Taking Action

As we reflect on International Migrant Day, we not only celebrate the contributions of migrants but also commit to building stronger support systems for their mental health. Here’s how we can all help:

• Advocate for mental health initiatives that prioritize migrant youth.
• Partner with organizations that provide culturally relevant support and resources.
• Celebrate the stories and successes of migrant youth, showcasing their resilience and potential.

The Rise Above Community Connections program is just one example of how collaboration and creativity can nurture mental health and empower young migrants to thrive.

Together, let’s continue to break barriers, foster connection, and champion the mental health and well-being of migrant youth.

Check Out More: Explore the impactful work of our partner, CWS – Lancaster Immigration & Refugee Program, in their 2023 Impact Report: Read here

Find more insights into the challenges and resilience of migration and how it impacts youth and their families: Mental Health of Immigrants and Refugees.

Share your thoughts and ways to support young migrants in your community below!