Recent immigration policies under the Trump administration have significantly contributed to a growing mental health crisis within the Nepali community in the United States. Speakers at a recent event in Jersey City, New Jersey, identified immigration-related challenges as a primary driver of mental health issues among Nepali immigrants.
These challenges include legal uncertainties, employment pressures, family separation, and social isolation, all of which have intensified due to stricter immigration measures. The combination of these stressors with the fast-paced American lifestyle and unpredictable policy shifts has led to a sharp increase in anxiety, fear, and other mental health concerns among Nepali immigrants, many of whom arrived with hopes of a brighter future but now face significant emotional and psychological burdens.
The Nepali community faces multiple immigration-related hurdles that are taking a severe toll on their mental well-being. Approximately 15,000 Nepali asylum applications are currently pending with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or immigration courts, leaving individuals in a state of prolonged uncertainty. Additionally, around 7,500 Nepalis are set to lose their Temporary Protected Status (TPS), further destabilizing their legal standing.
An estimated 17,000 Nepali students on F-1 visas struggle to balance academics with financial pressures, while thousands awaiting family reunification visas face extended delays, exacerbating feelings of isolation. These issues, coupled with job insecurity and social disconnection, have been identified as major contributors to mental health challenges, with reports of suicides within the community highlighting the severity of the crisis.
In response to these growing concerns, Hudson SPEAKS, in collaboration with CarePoint Health Christ Hospital, organized a free mental health seminar in Jersey City on Sunday. The event saw significant participation from Nepalis in New Jersey and surrounding areas. Hudson SPEAKS, known for its weekly virtual mental health seminars, hosted this in-person program with community leaders, mental health professionals, and stakeholders.
Dr. Bishnumaya Pariyar, Program Director at Hudson SPEAKS, emphasized the organization’s commitment to mental health, stating, “A healthy mental state is our top priority. We provide free counseling services and encourage direct contact if mental health issues arise. Mental illness is not something to hide—it’s something to understand and treat.” She underscored the need for broader outreach to address the rising mental health challenges and noted that Hudson SPEAKS can connect individuals with specialized therapists and coordinate with partner organizations for solutions.
Mental health experts at the seminar provided critical insights into the community’s struggles. Clinical therapist Dinesh Shrestha highlighted how immigration policy changes and lifestyle adjustments contribute to mental health issues, noting, “Every day brings new challenges, but how we handle them depends on our mental preparedness.” He urged individuals to seek professional help early to avoid harmful outcomes.
Kishor Panthi, Editor-in-Chief of Khasokhas and NepYork, pointed out that language barriers and limited access to mental health resources prevent many Nepalis from seeking help, stating, “Due to language issues, many Nepalis hide or endure their struggles without seeking treatment. This is a serious issue.”
Similarly, consultant Bal Krishna Mainali reframed mental health challenges as a natural part of life, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes rather than focusing solely on symptoms. The seminar also featured perspectives on self-care and community support.
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist Pooja Papneja encouraged prioritizing personal well-being, saying, “We often run for others but neglect ourselves, which leads to feelings of weakness and loneliness. Prioritizing ‘my happiness, my health’ can prevent many issues.”
Jersey City Council President Joyce Watterman stressed the importance of openly discussing mental health, declaring, “Without mental health, physical health is impossible. If you’re struggling, speak up—seeking help is not a weakness but a sign of strength and intelligence.”
The event, moderated by Hudson SPEAKS’ IT Consultant Pradeep Pariyar Thapa, included participation from trainees of Hudson SPEAKS’ mental health programs, reflecting the organization’s ongoing efforts to build community capacity.
Broader data underscores the mental health challenges faced by minority communities in the U.S. Studies show that one in five adults—over 50 million people—experiences mental health issues annually, yet many do not receive help. Among South Asians, including Nepalis, about 20% experience depression or anxiety in their lifetime, but only 34% seek professional support.
Cultural stigmas, language barriers, and a lack of culturally competent therapists often deter individuals from seeking care. In many South Asian cultures, mental health issues are viewed as shameful or a sign of weakness, and many are unaware that help is available or that their struggles are treatable.
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