Santa Cruz Immigration forum addresses children’s fear and anxiety

“Depression, you know anxiety, I’m just seeing some of that and just confusion,” said Michelle Favis, a marriage and family therapist intern.

It’s the same feelings for many Central Coast immigrants who don’t know when they might be forced to leave.

But Favis is helping families get through this tough time.

“Be honest with their children, that this is a hard time and join with them,” Favis said.

Favis said parents should talk to their kids about what’s going on.

“I recommended that they bring out some maps to show, OK, this is where mom and dad are from, you know, this is where our family came from and then we came here to the United States to work. I think it’s really empowering for immigrant families,” Favis said.

Favis also said taking care of yourself can be just as important as having your documents in order.

“Some of those tips are just getting in touch with their spirituality, getting in touch with their bodies. Make sure they eat, they sleep, and they connect with empathetic people,” Favis said.

Some community advocates were also at the forum, to offer help and information to those who need it.

“What to do with their children (is) something our community is scared of. What if I get deported, what’s going to happen with my children?” Lindsey Aquino Robles said.

“Resources I can present to someone, quick facts, anything that I can do to help,” UC Santa Cruz student Eric Rodriguez said.