Promised Dreams Turned Nightmare: The Harsh Reality for Immigrants in Canada’s Mental Health Maze

Jacqueline Addo remembers when her husband Joshua felt overwhelmed adjusting to life in Canada from Ghana two years ago. They were both struggling with their mental health.

“I felt like I wasn’t myself anymore,” Jacqueline said.

Joshua faced difficulties finding a job in his field and had to work elsewhere, while Jacqueline cared for their children. With just one income, they needed help from family and friends every month.

Now, Joshua has a job, but not all immigrants have an easy time. Moving to a new country can make people feel sad, frustrated, and lose confidence, say experts.

A study found that new Canadians worry more about feeding their families than people born here. Not having enough food and being far from family and friends can make mental health problems more common.

In 2022, over 437,000 immigrants came to Canada. Nova Scotia saw a record 12,500 arrivals, and Canada wants even more newcomers by 2026.

Iqbal Chowdhury, studying immigrants’ mental health, found that they are usually healthier than Canadians at first. But over time, their mental health gets worse, similar to people born here.

One reason is the stress of adapting to a new culture. Also, immigrants might feel less valuable because they can’t use their skills and education in Canada.

This makes them feel bad about themselves and stops them from making friends. Chowdhury says mental health is important for a better future.

Some immigrants struggle to get back into their careers, even after years. Some leave Canada because they feel let down.

Canada helps immigrants with mental health through settlement organizations and partnerships, but many still find it tough.

Manmeet and Randeep Oberoi moved from India in 2018. They have degrees and work experience but are struggling to find jobs here. They hoped it would take two years, but it’s been longer. They wonder if moving here was the right choice.

The stress of moving to a new country can cause many problems like feeling sad, anxious, and having trouble sleeping or eating. It’s a normal reaction, says Carmen Celina Moncayo from the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia.

After five years in Nova Scotia, Manmeet wonders if it’s worth staying without jobs.

“It’s very stressful,” she said. “If we can’t find jobs here, why are so many people coming?”