The Stories of ICE’s Brutal Treatment of Children Are Piling Up. The Effects Are Devastating.

The Toll on Mental Health

Experts in child development consistently warn that high-stress environments—especially those involving separation from caregivers—can have serious consequences.

Children who experience detention or separation may show signs of:

• Anxiety and depression
• Sleep disturbances and nightmares
• Withdrawal or behavioral changes
• Difficulty trusting others

In some cases, these effects don’t fade quickly. The emotional toll can follow children long after they leave detention, affecting their development, relationships, and sense of security.