There’s always been a lot of uncertainty about the immigration process in the United States. The current climate is no different. And while changes to how the federal government approaches immigration-related issues can leave you feeling on edge, you should take comfort that there may still be legal options available to you. That said, we realize that the immigration process can take a significant amount of time to play out, and during that time your emotions and psychological well-being can feel frayed. But you can and will get through this. Let’s look at some steps you can take to make this difficult time just a little bit easier for yourself.
How to cope with the stress of immigration-related issues
It can feel like your immigration issues are causing your life to spiral out of control. However, there are strategies that you can implement to protect your overall well-being. Here are some of them:
- Focus on what you can control: There are a lot of changes to and statements about the immigration system that can leave you feeling nervous and scared. But since you can’t control these things, you shouldn’t spend much time focusing on them. Instead, shift your attention to things that you can control. This includes how you approach your immigration issue and how you live your everyday life, including focusing on your family.
- Develop a backup plan: While the uncertainty of your situation can be nerve-wracking, you can alleviate a lot of stress by coming up with a backup plan in the event that things don’t go as planned. Saving money, addressing potential guardianship of your children and having a legal ally in your corner can give you a sense of relief and peace of mind.
- Wrap yourself in support: At times, it can feel like the world is out to get you. But that isn’t reality. There’s a whole community of people out there that’s going through similar circumstances, and a lot of individuals who support you. Seek out these groups and connect with them. This support can be invaluable as you face whatever challenges may come up, and they may spur discussions that give you guidance as far as how to better cope with your stress and position yourself for the successful outcome that you want.
- Find time to do the things you love: Going down the rabbit hole of immigration-related news can be defeating, leaving you feeling hopeless. But you’re not defined by your immigration status. So, seek out activities you love so that you can get in touch with your true identity, which is something that can never be taken away from you.
- Identify your strengths: It’s easy to think of the immigration system as focusing on your weaknesses, but you have several strengths that you can’t overlook. Make a concerted effort to recognize these strengths so that you see your value as a person. This will help you persevere through whatever difficulties you may be facing.
Do you have questions about how to navigate your immigration issues?
If so, then now is the time to seek out any help that you may need. It can be lonely and scary to navigate the immigration process on your own, but with an ally in your corner you can confidently step into the fray to advocate for an outcome that’s right for you. And remember that you’re strong and have value. You can and will get through this, coming out the other side as a stronger person.