Stress and Migration

Stress is an event that occurs when a stimulus (stressor) of any kind occurs and the individual cannot respond immediately and adequately to it. Failure to adapt creates imbalance and interrupts the homeostasis. Since migrating has an ambivalent meaning – constantly changing – the migrant needs to interpret new parameters of behavior, identity recognition, values, laws, and traditions by seeking “iatroglobal” answers. The relationship between stress and migration could put the migrant into crisis. Stress is a natural response and can activate resources to guide us in solving problems. Learning to recognize it is important, as well as learning strategies to prevent being overwhelmed by it.