Family Separation

Creating Policies to Protect Patients

Family separation has devastating physical, emotional, and psychological effects on children, parents, and entire communities. Forced separation due to immigration policies can cause toxic stress, trauma, and long-term health consequences, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. These harms disproportionately affect marginalized communities already facing systemic inequities.

Health Impacts of Family Separation

Family separation is devastating for children, families and communities. Impacts include:

Toxic Stress: Disrupts children’s brain development and affects long-term mental and physical health.
Emotional Trauma: Increases risk of depression, anxiety, and PTSD in children and parents.
Chronic Illness: Heightened stress weakens immune responses, contributing to conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Educational and Social Challenges: Separated children often struggle academically and socially due to instability and trauma.

Resources for Support and Advocacy

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American Academy of Pediatrics

Policy Statement on Family Detention

KIND: Kids in Need of Defense

Supports reunification of children and families separated at the U Southern Border

American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)

5 Things You Can Do To Fight For immigrant Families

National Council on Family Relations

Family Separation Resources

National Domestic Workers Alliance: Families Belong Together