What is Transnational Grief and Loss?
The Nystrom & Associates provider consulted for this article on transnational grief is Marilyn Quintero, a Mexican American/Latina Outpatient Mental Health Professional.
Grief is a complex emotional response to loss and is a deeply personal journey that can vary based on culture. While the specific expressions and rituals may vary, the underlying emotions of sadness, pain, and longing are universal human experiences. Across cultures, individuals grapple with the loss of loved ones, relationships, health, or cherished possessions. How these losses are mourned and remembered reflects each society's unique values, beliefs, and traditions.
What is Transnational Grief?
Immigrants deal with significant transitions, separations, and cultural adjustments. These changes can lead to a complex relationship between grief and loss. Immigrants may mourn the departure from their homeland, the loss of familiar relationships, and the challenges of adapting to a new culture. They also may experience grief related to the separation from loved ones left behind and the difficulties of maintaining connections across distances. The unique blend of grief and loss is often referred to as transnational grief.
Related: Types of Grief & Loss
How Transnational Grief Shows Up for Different Populations
Transnational grief can show up differently for different cultures and impact them in many ways. There's no ability to assist with the care of dying relatives, attendance of rituals, last goodbye, or resolution for many immigrants. These factors can cause depression, anxiety, trauma, helplessness, isolation, nerves, guilt, and family conflict – especially in the Latinx/e community.
So, how can you cope with transnational grief?
Related: So, You're Starting Therapy: Here's What You Need to Know
How Can Therapy Help Transnational Grief?
Therapy can offer significant support for individuals experiencing transnational grief. Therapists provide a safe and confidential space that can help individuals process these complex emotions. This space allows them to develop coping strategies and build resilience. A therapist can provide personalized support and guidance tailored to the unique experiences and needs of everyone. There are many forms of therapy that can be helpful for transnational grief.
For example, Marilyn Arechiga Quintero, a provider who identifies as Mexican American/Latina, works primarily with the Latinx/e population, and she finds that play therapy, narrative storytelling, and creative and expressive arts are all helpful for her clients. Therapists who specialize in transnational grief consider cultural differences and receive sufficient training.
Related: How to Cope With Life Transitions
A Word From Nystrom & Associates
If you're experiencing grief from losing a loved one in another country or if you have family, don't hesitate to get in touch with us at 1-844-NYSTROM or request an appointment online. We're here to help! We'll find a therapist that best fits your needs.
