Yunus Emre InstituteYunus Emre Institute London hosted an insightful talk titled Psychological Insights into the Migrant Experience in London by Tuba Ekinci, a PhD student in Psychology at Kingston University, on 7th November 2024. Ekinci shared her expertise on the psychological challenges faced by migrants living in London, focusing on the intersection of migration, trauma, and mental health.
Ekinci began her talk by underlining the significant psychological challenges that migrants face when adjusting to life in London. She highlighted the often-overlooked issues of mental health struggles, and limited access to support systems. Drawing from her research on complex trauma and its effects on migrant, she emphasized the need for more tailored mental health services and social support for this vulnerable population.
In her talk, Ekinci mentioned how forced migration and cultural dislocation can leave deep, lasting psychological scars, affecting individuals’ ability to integrate and thrive in their new environment. “Understanding the migrant experience is key to fostering a society that is both compassionate and inclusive,” Ekinci said. “By providing targeted support and creating spaces for open dialogue, we can better serve those who are navigating the intricate realities of migration.”
As part of her ongoing research, Ekinci is focused on improving mental health outcomes for migrant women affected by complex trauma. She also shared her first-hand experiences working with asylum seekers and refugees, providing a personal perspective on the daily challenges these individuals face.
The presentation provided attendees with an in-depth look at the psychological impact of migration and underscored the importance of providing comprehensive support for migrant communities in London through better mental health services, social programs, and community integration initiatives.
Ekinci’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for greater awareness and action to support migrants—not just at an institutional level, but within society as a whole. The event called on stakeholders to come together to address the needs of migrant communities with empathy, understanding, and concrete solutions.
As Yunus Emre Institute London continues its mission of promoting cultural exchange and understanding, the event served as a platform for dialogue and exploration, transcending geographical boundaries and fostering connections between diverse communities.
For more information about upcoming events and initiatives, please visit yeelondon.org.uk