Tackling anxiety and trauma amid immigration enforcement

In this episode of “Horizonte,” we talked with Nicole O’Hare, a licensed professional counselor specializing in anxiety, depression and trauma, about the mental health toll of aggressive immigration enforcement in Arizona as well as across the country.

O’Hare said heightened enforcement actions, including raids, detentions and deportations, are contributing to increased anxiety, depression and uncertainty in many communities.

“With everything so heightened right now, there’s so much uncertainty and definitely an increase in anxiety,” O’Hare said. “I’m just seeing a lot of individuals struggling with what to do next and how to remain hopeful.”

According to O’Hare, even witnessing events through news and social media can strain the nervous system. Many people are stuck in a constant state of “fight or flight or freeze,” which can lead to fatigue, lack of motivation and even physical symptoms such as stomach issues or migraines.

To cope, O’Hare encouraged people to limit “doomscrolling” while staying informed. She recommends balancing distressing content with activities that bring hope or joy, such as walking outside, practicing diaphragmatic breathing, gentle yoga or spending time with loved ones and pets.

Fear, she said, is natural and can be useful if acknowledged. O’Hare said fear serves a purpose: “It’s an invitation to look inside and see what we need in that moment.”

For immigrants and those with past trauma, current events may reactivate old wounds.

“Trauma is stored in the body,” O’Hare said, adding that even when people tell themselves they are safe, their bodies may respond differently.

Despite the challenges, O’Hare said she is seeing empathy and community support grow, with many people looking for ways to help their neighbors and build connection during uncertain times.

“I’m having clients ask if I know how they can volunteer,” O’Hare said, “if I have any resources for them to get involved.”