Do You Work with OR Identify with "Migrant", "Immigrant", or "Refugee" Populations? Learn More About the Ulysses Syndrome And Ways To Heal Project

Have you ever heard of the Ulysses Syndrome? Lucy Roberts (a partner of the CRC Network) and her team at Hui International launched a program to raise awareness of the migratory mournings (stressors) experienced by many migrants and refugees around the world. Anyone working with immigrants or refugees might find it useful to learn about the syndrome, and ways that individuals can heal.

Dr. Joseba Achotegui, professor at the University of Barcelona and psychiatrist, coined the term "Ulysses Syndrome" after the greek hero who suffered numerous adversities far from his loved ones.  Dr. Achotegui's work and research, along with that of others, indicates some migrants and immigrants who experience adaptation stressors (Migratory Mournings) may also experience physical and psychological symptoms such as nervousness, migraines, tension headaches, insomnia, fatigue, appetite loss, generalized ill-defined discomfort – the Ulysses Syndrome."

Migratory Mournings may include:

1. Homeland and geographic Change

2. Change in social status

3. Exposure to physical and psychological risk

4. Lost sense of belonging

5. Adapting to a new culture

6. Challenges with a new language

7. Missing loved ones

This is ever present with the current war in the Ukraine, migration due to climate change and destruction, political turmoil and even simply, globalization.

According to their website, Hui International's goal is "to help organizations and individuals create more caring, trauma and healing informed communities where all can blossom and thrive. It is our hope the information will validate migrant/refugee experiences and will lead to more accurate health/wellbeing diagnoses and prevent dismissal of suffering and marginalization."

HUI International shares the Five Protective Factors as one way that immigrants/migrants and refugees can heal:

1. Build resilience

2. Create social connections

3. Connect with support in times of need

4. Develop social and emotional competence

5. Develop knowledge of parenting and child development.

To learn more about the Ulysses Syndrome, protective factors and what HUI International is doing to help, check out the attached English info sheet. These info sheets are also available in other languages here.

Additionally, watch a 3 minute video about the Ulysses Syndrome and wellbeing ideas for migrants and refugees.

Want to engage in conversations that celebrate and create pathways for positive personal and community change – conversations that uplift women and girls internationally? Check out CalGalsMedia's podcast here!