Exploring Immigration's Impact on Refugees and Migrants Mental Health

The 2025 Winter Conference, themed Exploring Immigration and Legal Status as Social Drivers and Determinants of Migrants' Mental Health, Gambling, Substance Use, and Suicidality, aims to spotlight the intersection of immigration and mental health challenges. Migrants often face unique adversities, including legal uncertainties, cultural shifts, and systemic barriers that profoundly impact their well-being. These factors, which drive social isolation, economic hardships, and instability, can also shape patterns of gambling, substance use, and suicidal behaviors.

The conference will bring together experts, community leaders, and advocates to examine the influence of immigration policies and legal status on mental health outcomes among migrant populations. Through a series of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and breakout sessions, attendees will explore how the complexities of legal status, such as undocumented status or prolonged asylum processes, serve as significant social drivers affecting the mental health of immigrants.

By unpacking these issues, we hope to foster awareness and build actionable strategies to address the mental health needs of this community. The conference will also provide an opportunity to share evidence-based practices, highlight culturally responsive interventions, and advocate for policy reforms to reduce these harms. Join us in cultivating a supportive dialogue to enhance community resilience, promote mental health, and mitigate gambling, substance use, and suicidality among migrant populations. Together, we can work toward creating more inclusive systems that support the well-being of all.

Event Venue

Wilder Foundation, 451 Lexington Parkway North, Saint Paul, United States