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<br />5. Immigrants who are members of the community often experience the negative <br />consequences of trauma. <br />Trauma experienced in the country of origin or during immigration is another mental <br />health issue commonly found in the community. Survey results show that 39% of <br />respondents experience natural disasters, 21 % political violence, and 28% other abuse. <br />Emotional or mental problems associated with trauma are reported by 47% of those <br />who experience other abuse, 41 % who encounter natural disaster, and 28% who are <br />victims of political violence. Only 19% of respondents seek help for emotional/mental <br />problems resulting from trauma, and the vast majority of those who seek help (83%) do <br />not go to a mental health professional. <br /> <br />Focus group comments support concerns about the negative results of trauma. There <br />is consensus among participants about a generalized level of fear and anxiety among <br />new arrivals in the U.S. Participants also emphasize the traumatic experience of many <br />who immigrate. <br /> <br />Emotional and mental health problems associated with trauma are least <br />likely to result in community members seeking mental health assistance. <br />This is an area where information and education is greatly needed in the <br />community. Providers will also benefit from an improved awareness of the <br />negative consequences among community members caused by trauma. <br /> <br />6. Immigration can cause family disruption/dislocation which, in turn, can lead to <br />mental health problems. <br />The family is an especially significant social unit for community members, and family <br />disruption/dislocation as a result of their immigration is an important issue. Nearly <br />three-quarters of the respondents (74%) report they experienced family <br />disruption/dislocation, and almost two-thirds (63%) report emotional/mental problems <br />resulting from the family disruption/dislocation. <br /> <br />Focus group responses emphasize difficulties in raising children in the U.S. because of <br />cultural differences. Parents feel the U.S. fosters more permissiveness and <br />independence for children, which is contrary to community culture. <br /> <br />Information that helps family members cope with separation problems and <br />difficulties raising children will be helpful, as will information for providers <br />on these issues. <br /> <br />C-- ~ <br />