Someone I love was deported or detained
Grief, the children and living with fear.
4 steps
Step 1 of 4: Your grief
This is a real loss, even though they are alive.
- Grief After DeportationYour person is alive, but they are gone from your daily life, and you do not know when you will hold them again. That is a real loss, and it is right to grieve it. Here is why this grief feels so confusing, what helps, and where to find support.Guide
- Ways to stay close from far awayPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 2 of 4: The children
Children feel it in their sleep and school day.
- Helping Children CopeWhen a parent is taken, children feel it in their bodies, their sleep and their school days. You cannot fix everything, and you do not have to. Honest words, steady routines and staying connected help children cope. Here is what to say, what to watch for, and where to get free help.Guide
- Words you can usePrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 3 of 4: Living with fear
You are far from alone.
- Living with enforcement fearIf fear of immigration enforcement has changed how your family lives, you are far from alone. Surveys in 2025 found that many immigrant families stay home more, skip care and struggle to pay bills. Here is what the numbers show, what families are doing to cope, and the steps that help most.Guide
- One page family calm planPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 4 of 4: Get help from a person
You do not have to do this alone. Ask about cost, languages and current openings before you share documents.
This page puts DNLH guides in a useful order. It is general information, not legal advice. Each guide shows its sources and the date its facts were checked.
Not quite your situation?
All situations- Someone I love may be thinking about suicideWhat to do now, how to ask and how to keep them safe.4 steps
- I feel overwhelmed, anxious or downCalm your body, know the signs and find counseling.4 steps
- My child or teen is strugglingNotice, talk and get them help.4 steps
- Someone I love is drinking or using drugsHelp before they are ready, treatment and your rights.4 steps