In Connecticut, approximately 1 in 4 children lives in an immigrant family. In these households, adaptation often includes economic barriers, language challenges, discrimination, and the fear of family separation. When these pressures are intense and prolonged, they can become “toxic stress” and affect health and development.

Toxic stress occurs when the body remains in a prolonged state of “alert” without sufficient protective supports (family, community, services). This sustained activation can affect physical and mental health and, in children, interfere with learning, behavior, and development.

Key data on stress (general context and in Connecticut)
• Adults (anxiety symptoms, NHIS 2022): 20.1% in women vs. 16.3% in men (NCHS, National Health Statistics Reports No. 213, 2024).
• Adults (depression symptoms, NHIS 2022): 24.2% in women vs. 18.5% in men (NCHS, National Health Statistics Reports No. 213, 2024).
• Adolescents (YRBS 2023, U.S.): persistent sadness/hopelessness: 53.1% in girls vs. 28.3% in boys; serious suicidal ideation: 27.4% in girls vs. 13.6% in boys (CDC, 2023; MMWR, 2024).
• Children/adolescents ages 12–17 (NSCH 2023, U.S.): current diagnosis of anxiety: 20.1% in girls vs. 12.3% in boys; depression: 10.9% in girls vs. 6.0% in boys (HRSA/MCHB, Data Brief NSCH 2023, published 2024).

Why does it become chronic?
In immigrant families, stress can become chronic due to sustained uncertainty (employment, food, housing, transportation, child care, access to health care), isolation, pressure to adapt, and, in some cases, prior trauma. Without stable support, sleep, concentration, and emotional regulation are disrupted; in children, it can also affect learning and behavior.

Symptoms
• Adults (physical, emotional, and behavioral): insomnia or nonrestorative sleep; irritability; migraines/physical pain; palpitations or gastrointestinal discomfort; constant worry; difficulty concentrating; persistent sadness or panic episodes; avoidance; isolation or increased alcohol/tobacco use.
• Older adults (common signs): changes in sleep or appetite; fatigue; increased confusion or problems with memory/attention; more irritability or worry; isolation; more physical complaints (pain) and worsening of chronic conditions. At times, sadness is expressed more as aches or physical discomfort than as a “low mood.”
• Children and adolescents (emotional, behavioral, and academic): changes in school performance; attention or behavior problems; withdrawal or frequent conflicts; regression (for example, bedwetting); intense crying or separation anxiety.
• When to seek help: if symptoms last more than 2–4 weeks, worsen, or interfere with daily life (school, work, or self-care), consult a professional; in an immediate crisis, seek emergency assistance.

Recommendations: Building resilience
• Routines: establish consistent schedules for sleep, meals, and school to increase a sense of safety and reduce uncertainty.
• Co-regulation: take brief pauses, practice slow breathing, and validate emotions before correcting behavior.
• Daily connection: 10–15 minutes of play or conversation without criticism strengthens bonds and the sense of support.
• Protective habits: engage in physical activity, reduce caffeine/alcohol, and maintain good sleep hygiene (limit screen time before bed).
• School and community: request an interpreter, use school counseling services, and build a network of two to three trusted adults.
• Professional support: seek primary care and trauma-informed therapy; pursue social/legal guidance to reduce uncertainty.

Milton Capón Bermeo is a clinical psychologist with 18 years of experience in Ecuador in the areas  of clinical care, public health, and social policy, a graduate of the Danbury PLTI Class of 2024, and Co-Founder of the ABYA YALA Migrant Community. To reach him, call (203) 809-0603.