The CIRCLE’s Commitment to Supporting Children and Immigrant Families During World Mental Health Day

In recognition of World Mental Health Day, The CIRCLE, a project of the Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma (IVAT), emphasizes the importance of addressing the mental health challenges faced by immigrant children and families, particularly those affected by traumatic experiences related to immigration enforcement, such as ICE detention and family separation. The initiative focuses on providing targeted resources and activities designed to promote healing, resilience, and well-being among these vulnerable populations.

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World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10th, aims to raise awareness about mental health issues worldwide and promote efforts to improve mental health care for all. Recognized by the World Health Organization and various organizations globally, this day highlights the importance of understanding mental health as a critical component of overall well-being. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1 in 8 people globally live with a mental health disorder, yet many do not receive adequate support or treatment. By fostering conversations, reducing stigma, and advocating for accessible mental health services, World Mental Health Day plays a vital role in advancing mental health awareness and ensuring that individuals and communities receive the support they need to thrive.

While World Mental Health Day highlights the critical importance of mental health awareness, The CIRCLE is committed to ongoing support and resources throughout the entire month of October. We continue to provide valuable mental health resources and information to help immigrant children and families affected by traumatic immigration experiences, including those related to ICE detention and family separation. In addition, we provide valuable resources to help children and families with mental health resources to help support organizations such as the National Immigration Justice Center, the National Immigration Law Center, Democracy Now, Democracy Forward, and Indivisible, ensuring that communities have access to resources, advocacy, and information needed to promote healing, resilience, and justice beyond this special day.

Stress and Trauma Among Children and Families in the United States in 2025
The stress resulting from ICE immigration enforcement and family separation is significantly increasing mental health challenges among children in affected communities and schools across the United States. Many immigrant children experience heightened anxiety, fear, and emotional distress due to the uncertainty of family reunification or detention, which can impair their ability to focus and succeed academically. This growing mental health burden underscores the urgent need for targeted support and resources to help children cope with these traumatic experiences and promote their well-being within their families and communities. The following describes the immediate resources that the CIRCLE provides to families, children, and communities.

Key Resources and Activities Include:

Immediate Resource Support for Families Affected by ICE Detention
​Clear, actionable steps are provided for families whose loved ones have been detained by ICE. These steps aim to empower families to act swiftly, access legal and community support, and understand their rights during a distressing time. Learn more, visit Taken By ICE - THE CIRCLE

Emotional and Psychological Support for Children and Parents
​The CIRCLE offers practical self-care strategies tailored for children and parents coping with the trauma of detention and separation. These include:

• ​Age-specific child self-care activities
• Parent self-care and emotional health tips
• Animal-assisted comfort techniques
• Creative activities like letter writing to foster expression and connection

​These activities help families process their emotions, build resilience, and reduce the long-term psychological impacts of trauma. Learn more, visit Supporting Kids ICE Detention - THE CIRCLE

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Resources for Rights and Advocacy:
The CIRCLE provides information and support to help immigrant families understand and advocate for their rights. This ensures families are informed about legal protections and community resources available to them.

Broader Goals:
Through these efforts, The CIRCLE aims to raise awareness about the specific mental health needs of immigrant children and families affected by immigration enforcement. By offering immediate, practical support and fostering resilience, The CIRCLE honors the spirit of World Mental Health Day—highlighting the importance of mental health care, community support, and policy advocacy to address and mitigate trauma among immigrant populations. Learn more at About Us.