Right now, many Latino families are living with fear and uncertainty. Changes in immigration policies have shaken our sense of safety. Even families who have lived here legally for many years are worried, unsure of what could change, and unsure of what tomorrow might bring. This constant stress is taking a real toll on Latino families’ mental health. In our community work, we are seeing three emotional struggles come up again and again: anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.

Anxiety

Anxiety has become part of daily life for many Latino families. The fear of being separated from a parent, spouse, child, or close relative is always present. Many people wake up each day wondering if something could go wrong whether it is on the way to work, at a traffic stop, or during a routine errand. For many, this fear never turns off. Even thinking about deportation or detention can cause panic, sleeplessness, and constant worry. Living in survival mode for so long can be traumatic, and over time, that trauma can lead to anxiety disorders, including PTSD. No one should have to live with that level of fear every day.

Depression

Alongside anxiety, many Latino families are experiencing depression. We see it in changes in mood, sleep, appetite, and energy. People who were once active and social are becoming withdrawn. Families talk about feeling hopeless or emotionally numb.

Separation plays a big role. Some families have already lost a parent, relative, or close friend due to immigration enforcement. Others live with the constant fear that someone they love could be taken away at any moment. Parents worry about how this affects their children, especially teens, who may turn to substance use or struggle emotionally. In some cases, parents are pulling their children out of school out of fear of immigration enforcement. While they do this to protect their family, the sudden disruption can be deeply upsetting for children and adolescents, leading to sadness, isolation, and depression.

Stress

Chronic stress is affecting the entire community, especially children and elders. In Minnesota, families are witnessing more immigration arrests and hearing constant stories of people being taken from their neighborhoods. As a result, many are avoiding public spaces as they are no longer attending family gatherings, community events, restaurants, or even outdoor activities.

Living this way takes a physical toll. We are seeing more people experiencing stomach pain, migraines, high blood pressure, and other stress-related health problems. The body carries what the mind is forced to endure.

Anxiety, depression, and stress are not signs of weakness. They are normal responses to living under constant pressure and fear. Naming what we are experiencing is the first step toward healing.

WellShare is a nonprofit community organization that stands with Latino families. We connect community members to mental health support, healthcare clinics, and trusted volunteer immigration attorneys. You do not have to face this alone. Support is available, and help is here.

Taking care of your mental health is an act of strength, not only for you, but also for your family and your future.

Written By:

Roxana Segura, Community Health Worker

Gisselle Segura, Youth lead/Community Health worker