R.I.P. Rest in Pieces

Lampedusa and Lesvos, located 1,300km apart in the Mediterranean, share a common fate as the final destination for thousands of migrants each year. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports that in the first half of 2021, over 1,146 people lost their lives during the journey. While those who perish at sea remain nameless, those who survive and are forced to stay in the reception centers of Lesbos and Lampedusa suffer invisible wounds that often shatter their dreams, hopes, and health.

The experiences of violence and loss, along with the challenges of fleeing one’s past and coping with environmental hardships, can lead to psychological distress among those who have migrated. This can manifest as depression, fear, and loneliness, and may be exacerbated by the difficulty of obtaining legal permits and financial stability. Unfortunately, many individuals may find it challenging to overcome these struggles.