The resettlement of Central American men in Canada: From emotional distress to successful integration

Abstract

Stress associated with immigration, particularly forced migration, may aggravate men's emotional distress and reluctance to seek help. This qualitative study of Central American immigrant and refugee men explored the process of coping with distress during resettlement. "Losing the way," a common theme of resettlement, was frequently a solitary struggle accompanied by anxiety, depression, and/or abusive behaviours. "Finding the way," grieving socio-cultural losses and seeking help, became possible when participants were able to accept responsibility for their behaviour. The role of "belonging" (support groups, jobs, family obligations) was a key motivating factor in the process of accepting responsibility and personal change.