Understanding Immigrant-Related PTSD: A Trauma-Informed Approach at Libélula Primary Care

Migration is often a story of courage—but it can also be a story of trauma. For many immigrants, the journey to a new country is marked by violence, loss, fear, and uncertainty. These experiences can leave lasting emotional wounds, often invisible but deeply felt. At Libélula Primary Care, we recognize and honor these stories. We offer trauma-informed, culturally attuned care for those navigating Immigrant-Related PTSD—because healing begins with being seen, heard, and believed.

What Is Immigrant-Related PTSD?

Immigrant-Related PTSD refers to post-traumatic stress disorder that arises from experiences tied to migration. Unlike a single traumatic event, this form of PTSD is often complex and cumulative, shaped by multiple stages of the migration journey:

• Pre-migration trauma: war, political persecution, gang violence, poverty, or domestic abuse

• Transit trauma: dangerous border crossings, human trafficking, family separation, detention, or sexual violence

• Post-migration trauma: racism, xenophobia, fear of deportation, housing insecurity, and barriers to healthcare or employment

Symptoms may include:

• Flashbacks or nightmares

• Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response

• Emotional numbness or detachment

• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

• Feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness

These symptoms are not signs of weakness—they are survival responses to overwhelming stress. And they are more common than many providers realize.

Impact on Children and Families

Immigrant-related trauma doesn’t just affect individuals—it ripples through families and generations.

Children may:

• Experience trauma directly (e.g., separation from caregivers, detention)

• Absorb the emotional distress of their parents or caregivers

• Struggle with identity, language barriers, or bullying in school

• Be misdiagnosed with behavioral disorders when trauma is the root cause

Parents and caregivers may:

• Feel guilt or grief over what their children endured

• Struggle to access mental health care due to stigma, language, or cost

• Experience intergenerational trauma, where stress and fear are passed down unconsciously

At Libélula, we understand that healing must include the whole family. We create space for shared stories, mutual support, and culturally grounded resilience.

Healing and Support at Libélula

Healing from immigrant-related PTSD requires more than a prescription. It requires trust, safety, and cultural humility. At Libélula Primary Care, we offer:

• Trauma-informed primary care: We screen gently, listen deeply, and never rush your story.

• Bilingual support: We speak your language—literally and culturally.

• Referrals to trusted providers: Including those with experience in immigrant, refugee, and diverse communities.

• Support for undocumented and mixed-status families: We never ask for proof of status. Your safety comes first.

• Community resource navigation: From legal aid to housing support, we help connect the dots.

We also recognize that healing is not linear. Some days are heavy. Some stories are hard to tell. But you don’t have to carry them alone.

A Path Toward Healing

If you or someone you love is living with trauma related to migration, know this:

You are not alone. You are not broken. You are worthy of care.

At Libélula Primary Care, we walk with you—at your pace, in your language, and with deep respect for your journey.

Let’s begin the path toward healing, together.