Acculturation Stress: How Immigration Challenges Mental Health

Immigrating to a new country brings exciting opportunities, but it often also carries hidden emotional burdens. Acculturation stress—the emotional and psychological strain of adapting to a new culture—can significantly impact mental health. At Phronesis Psychotherapy & Coaching, we honor the dignity, cultural backgrounds, and inner wisdom of each person navigating these transitions, offering a compassionate and spiritually aware space to heal and grow.

1. Understanding Acculturation Stress

Acculturation is not just about adapting to a new language or customs—it involves reshaping identity, values, and sense of belonging (Berry & Annis, 1974). When this process becomes overwhelming, it becomes acculturation stress, which can manifest as anxiety, depression, identity confusion, or somatic symptoms (Sam & Berry, 2016; Sirin et al., 2013).

Notably, youth—particularly those aged 15–24—are deeply affected. A scoping review found that acculturation stress correlates strongly with depression, anxiety, eating issues, substance misuse, and poor psychological well-being (Polanco-Roman & Miranda, 2013; Sirin et al., 2013).

2. Who Is Most at Risk?

First-generation immigrants often face initial stressors such as language barriers and isolation. However, second-generation youth also report significant anxiety and depression linked to family expectations, cultural identity confusion, and dual expectations (Katsiaficas et al., 2013; Alamilla et al., 2020).

Across diverse groups—LatinX, Asian, Muslim, African immigrants—acculturation stress has been linked to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, body-image concerns, and suicidal ideation (Chen, 2017; Cano et al., 2021; Tineo et al., 2021).

3. Protective Factors

• Social Support: Family, community, and church networks can buffer the effects of acculturation stress (Katsiaficas et al., 2013; Miller et al., 2013).

• Bicultural Identity: Maintaining a strong connection to one’s heritage while integrating a new culture promotes resilience and self-esteem (Piña-Watson et al., 2013; Nair, 2017).

• Spiritual Integration: Spiritual practices and rituals can anchor meaning and identity, offering comfort during transitions.

4. The Role of Culturally Sensitive Therapy

Therapists who practice cultural humility—valuing and exploring the client’s worldview—create a healing environment rooted in respect and shared meaning (Hook et al., 2015; Sue, 1998).

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other approaches can be adapted to include cultural values, spirituality, and personal narratives—offering more affirming, effective interventions (Russell & Rivera, 2015).

5. Practical Steps for Healing

• Normalize the Experience: Recognize that acculturation stress is common and not a sign of weakness.

• Strengthen Support Systems: Reconnect with cultural organizations, religious communities, or peer groups.

• Cultivate Bicultural Identity: Celebrate both heritage and new culture, allowing for creative integration.

• Seek Culturally Sensitive Therapy: Work with therapists who respect and value your cultural and spiritual background.

• Use Narrative and Spiritual Resources: Share stories, prayers, and rituals that connect with personal heritage and meaning.

Phronesis Values Reflected

• Dignity & Respect: Acknowledge the complexity of cultural identity.

• Spiritual Integration: Encourage the use of faith, rituals, and meaning in healing.

• Collaborative Journey: Therapy as shared work rooted in mutual trust and cultural humility.

• Holistic Care: Tending to emotional, spiritual, and communal dimensions.

References (APA)

Alamilla, S. G., et al. (2020). Acculturative stress and alcohol use. Journal of Immigrant Health.
Berry, J. W., & Annis, R. C. (1974). Acculturative stress definitions. International Journal of Psychology.
Cano, M. Á., et al. (2021). Cultural incongruity and depression in LatinX youth. Cultural Diversity & Ethnic Minority Psychology.
Chen, X. (2017). Acculturation stress and depression in Asian youth. Asian American Journal of Psychology.
Hook, J. N., et al. (2015). Cultural humility in therapy. Journal of Counseling Psychology.
Katsiaficas, D., et al. (2013). Social support and acculturation stress. Journal of Adolescent Health.
Nair, R. (2017). Cultural identity and psychological well-being. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology.
Piña-Watson, B., et al. (2013). Heritage identification and well-being. Journal of Latina/o Psychology.
Polanco-Roman, L., & Miranda, R. (2013). Acculturative stress and suicidal ideation. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology.
Russell, M., & Rivera, R. (2015). Group therapy adaptations for acculturation stress. Group Psychotherapy Journal.
Sam, D. L., & Berry, J. W. (2016). Acculturation: Advances in theory. International Journal of Psychology.
Sirin, S. R., et al. (2013). Longitudinal studies on youth acculturation. Journal of Youth and Adolescence.
Sue, D. W. (1998). Multicultural counseling competence. Wiley.
Sue, S., & Sue, D. W. (1990). Counseling the culturally different. McGraw-Hill.

Ready to find peace in the midst of cultural transitions?
At Phronesis Psychotherapy & Coaching, we offer culturally sensitive therapy that honors your heritage and your journey.
👉 Book a free consultation today or send us a message to learn how we can support your healing.