Invisible struggles, visible solutions: addressing the mental health needs of migrant women. A narrative review

Emanuele Caroppo, Giuseppe Marano, Sara Rossi, Francesco Maria Lisci, Caterina Brisi, Giuseppe Comite, Tiziana Di Palma, Rosalia Giammetta, Silvia Santiccioli, Maurizio Porfiri, Pietro De Lellis, Marianna Mazza

Abstract. Migrant women often face a unique set of challenges that profoundly affect their mental health. Issues such as adverse experiences during motherhood, compounded by experiences of violence including domestic abuse, prostitution, trafficking, and sexual aggressions, contribute significantly to their psychological distress. Furthermore, migrant women encounter pervasive discrimination and gender stereotypes that restrict their autonomy and increase their vulnerability. The psychological wounds inflicted upon these women, especially the youngest refugees, can be deep and lasting, often manifesting as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, adaptation, and trauma- and stressorrelated disorders. Migrant women often carry the burden of immense trauma and repeated abuse, which can shatter their sense of self. These experiences inflict scars that the psyche struggles to integrate, transcending the notion of mere ‘unrepresentability’ of trauma. Invisible struggles need visible solutions, through the creation of safe spaces where women can engage in transformative processes of healing and recovery, free from shame, guilt, and stigma. To effectively address the unique mental health burdens faced by migrant and refugee women, targeted prevention programs tailored to their needs are essential. Future research should also focus on this population to develop interventions that support their mental health and well-being.
Key words. Women, migrants, gender-based violence, mental health, trauma.