Somalis’ Cultural Barriers, Perceptions About Mental Health Issues Stoke Fears About Suicide
“We don’t really talk about it when the suicide occurs in the community — of course we grieve, of course we go to the graves, but I feel like there’s no larger discussion at the end of the day,” said Munira Ali, of San Diego.
KPBS:
San Diego’s Somalis Worried About Mental Health Needs
Research shows refugees are at a high risk for mental disorders, and some may inadvertently pass those symptoms on to their kids. But because of cultural stigmas and language challenges, they may not be fully addressed. (Mento, 3/12)
In other news —
The Mercury News:
Stuck In Limbo, DACA Recipients Consumed By Fear And Anxiety
As the latest deadlines to salvage the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival program passed with no action this month — and U.S. Attorney Jeff Sessions announced the Trump Administration is suing California over its sanctuary laws — the chronic sense of foreboding among immigrants across the Bay Area is taking its emotional toll. ... Mental health experts and advocates say the fears and uncertainties plaguing undocumented immigrants and their families are causing “toxic stress” that can have long-term health effects, including problems sleeping and eating, headaches, vomiting, depression and anxiety. (Sanchez and Sulek, 3/9)