The Intersection of Immigration Policies and Mental Health: A Silent Crisis in Our Examination Rooms

Immigration has always been a topic of passionate debate, especially in countries like Canada and the United States. Policies shift, opinions clash, and headlines focus on numbers and statistics. But behind all of this, there’s a deeply human story—one of hope, sacrifice, and, for many, unbearable uncertainty.

Every day in my clinic, I sit across from people who have left everything behind for the promise of a better life. Some followed every rule, earning advanced degrees, learning new languages, and working hard to contribute to their new communities. Others took more uncertain paths, driven by desperation and the hope of a better future. No matter their story, they all carry the same invisible weight—the stress, the fear, the crushing uncertainty of not knowing what tomorrow will bring.

The Emotional Toll of Uncertainty

For many immigrants, arriving in a new country isn’t the end of their journey—it’s the start of a long, exhausting battle to stay. In Canada, shifting policies around work permits have left thousands wondering whether they’ll be forced to leave behind the life they’ve worked so hard to build. These are people filling crucial roles in society—roles that are often underappreciated and underpaid.

Now, imagine doing everything right—building a home, forming relationships, and establishing a stable life—only to have it all threatened by forces beyond your control. The psychological toll is immense, showing up in ways that go far beyond simple stress:

• Chronic Anxiety and Stress: The constant worry of “What if?” keeps people awake at night, leading to panic attacks and an overwhelming sense of dread.
• Depression: When the future feels uncertain, hopelessness sets in. Many struggles with feelings of worthlessness and despair.
• Sleep Disturbances: A common complaint I hear is, “I can’t shut my mind off at night.” The weight of uncertainty makes true rest nearly impossible.
• Physical Health Issues: The impact of chronic stress is well-documented. It raises blood pressure, weakens the immune system, and contributes to heart disease, digestive issues, and other serious conditions.

This isn’t just an inconvenience. It’s a health crisis, unfolding quietly in our communities, in our workplaces, and, for me, in my examination room.

Overlooked and Underappreciated

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of this crisis is that it disproportionately affects some of the most educated, hardworking, and peaceful individuals in our society. Doctors, engineers, scientists, teachers—people whose skills are desperately needed—find themselves in limbo, constantly having to prove their worth to a system that should be welcoming them with open arms.

Too often, immigrants are reduced to statistics. News headlines debate quotas and policies, but rarely do they capture the human beings behind the numbers. These are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters, navigating an uphill battle to stay in a country they’ve already given so much to.

Policy Decisions Are Health Decisions

As a physician, my job isn’t to take sides politically—it’s to care for my patients. But I can’t ignore the truth: immigration policies don’t just affect legal status, they directly impact health and well-being.

When governments tighten immigration rules or leave crucial policies vague, they create an atmosphere of fear that damages mental and physical health. This isn’t theoretical—it’s happening every day in my exam room. Patients come in with symptoms of stress-related illnesses, and when I ask what’s going on in their lives, immigration uncertainty is often at the heart of their struggles.

How We Can Help

If you know someone facing this kind of uncertainty, there are ways to support them:

1. Listen Without Judgment: Sometimes, what people need most is someone who truly hears them. Let them share their worries without fear of criticism.

2. Encourage Professional Support: Therapy and counseling can be invaluable tools for navigating stress and anxiety. Let them know seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

3. Be an Advocate: If you have the privilege of stability, use your voice to support fair and compassionate immigration policies.

4. Build a Community of Support: Stress thrives in isolation. Offer friendship, connection, and support—simple gestures can make a huge difference.

A Call for Empathy and Action

Immigration isn’t just a policy issue—it’s a human issue. It’s about people who want nothing more than a chance to build a better future. The decisions we make as a society don’t just shape laws; they shape lives for generations.

As a doctor, I urge policymakers to consider the real, human cost of immigration uncertainty. Clarity and stability aren’t just administrative conveniences—they’re essential for well-being. Without them, we’re setting people up for unnecessary suffering.

And to those living in this uncertainty: I see you. I hear you. I stand with you. Your resilience is remarkable, and your contributions to society matter. We must work together to ensure that the systems meant to support us don’t become barriers to the life you deserve.