Mental Health of Young Migrants: A Key to Integration in Italy

Young migrants in Italy face unique challenges that significantly affect their mental health, impacting their ability to integrate into society. Many arrive after fleeing war, poverty, or environmental disasters, and their journey often involves severe trauma and stress. Addressing their mental health needs is critical for ensuring a smooth integration process and helping them build a stable, productive life in their new country.

One of the most prevalent issues facing young migrants is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to a 2018 study titled “Stress, trauma, and posttraumatic stress disorder in migrants,” refugees are nearly twice as likely to experience PTSD as migrant workers. The uncertainty of migration, loss of family or friends, and experiences of violence or exploitation contribute to high levels of anxiety and depression. Additionally, the pressure to adapt to a new culture, language, and societal norms—known as acculturation—further exacerbates mental health struggles. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1 in 5 people in post-conflict settings have mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.

Young migrants are particularly vulnerable due to their developmental stage, and neglecting their mental health can result in long-term problems such as educational setbacks, unemployment, and social exclusion. Research shows that young people with untreated mental health issues are at a higher risk of becoming marginalized, which can lead to a cycle of poverty and isolation.

One of the main obstacles in tackling the mental health of young migrants is the lack of access to mental health services. Italy, while providing basic support services for migrants, often struggles with underfunded and overwhelmed healthcare systems. Language barriers, stigma surrounding mental health in some migrant communities, and limited access to culturally sensitive care are significant problems. A 2021 report by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights highlighted that nearly 40% of migrants in Europe experience difficulty in accessing healthcare, particularly mental health services.

Addressing the mental health of young migrants is crucial not just for their personal well-being but also for their successful integration into Italian society. Mental health interventions, including counseling, community support, and resilience-building programs, can help migrants overcome trauma and adapt more easily.The DEVMIGRA project is designed to address these barriers head-on. By equipping youth workers with the necessary skills and knowledge, DEVMIGRA ensures that they can provide culturally sensitive mental health support and resilience-building programs tailored to young migrants.Mental Health of Young Migrants: A Key to Integration in Italy