Many asylum seekers carry deep fears and doubts toward government programs and formal healthcare systems. This mistrust stems from a combination of past experiences, cultural norms, and very real fears about how using services might affect their immigration status. 

• Rather than risking delays or negative outcomes in their asylum process, many LAAS made the difficult choice to suffer in silence.

   

• LAAS frequently expressed a desire to be self-reliant and avoid seeming dependent on government help. Some were explicitly warned by family or peers that accepting public assistance could hurt their asylum case.

   

• Even basic services like COVID-19 testing triggered fear. Asylum seekers worried that participating even in something intended to protect public health could be used against them in their legal proceedings.

   

• In addition to immigration-related fears, cultural norms around healthcare play a role. Many LAAS are not accustomed to preventive care and may only seek help in emergencies. Others, especially those from rural areas, carry a deep-seated distrust of formal medical systems.