HOW DO VENEZUELAN MIGRANTS TO CHILE NARRATE THEIR MIGRATION PROCESS AND ITS EFFECTS UPON HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH?

Migration to Chile has increased substantially during the last 5 years, with the latest wave of
migrants being that of Venezuelans, representing as of 2022 more than half a million people,
i.e. 32.8% of foreign residents. Unplanned migration flows have generated a profound crisis
characterised by high levels of xenophobia and a lack of protective state policies. This study
aims to analyse qualitatively the characteristics of the early migration processes as narrated by
10 Venezuelan migrants to Chile, emphasising their effects on psychosomatic health. It argues
that social stigma has a direct adverse impact on psychosomatic health, while stamina works
in the opposite direction, being mediated by the social support received from others. The work
is based on Venezuelans’ perceptions before and during departure, in their journeys, and upon
their arrival in Chile. Findings show that key factors negatively influence their mental health
at the different stages, such as forced migration, unplanned or sudden fleeing, violence and
profound adversities faced on bus and on foot journeys, irregular entry, and exhaustion,
reduced access to mental health care, social discrimination and acculturation stress. The main
protective factors that favor mental health include the care provided by relatives and friends,
as well as the favourable disposition of hosts.