‘Life as an asylum seeker is a story of strength and resilience’
To mark Refugee Week, a member of the Writing With Writers group, which meets regularly at the Buncrana Library, writes about their experiences of living as an asylum seeker in Donegal
My life as an asylum seeker is not something I ever planned for.
It is a path I was forced to take because staying in my home country meant living in constant fear. I left behind my family, friends, and sense of belonging, not because I wanted a better life, but because I wanted to survive. Seeking asylum is not a choice; it is about safety.
The journey itself was frightening and uncertain. Leaving home meant not knowing if I would ever return or see my loved ones again. I carried very little with me, but I held many memories, fears, and unanswered questions.
Arriving in a new country brought brief relief, quickly replaced by confusion and anxiety about what would come next.
The asylum process is long and slow, and each day feels like a test of patience. Waking up without knowing what the future holds is exhausting.
Questions like whether I will be allowed to stay or sent back to danger weigh heavily on my mind. This constant uncertainty affects mental and emotional well-being, making even simple decisions difficult.
Another major challenge is the lack of independence. Many asylum seekers are not allowed to work while waiting for a decision, which means relying on limited support that often does not meet basic needs. For those who once supported themselves, this loss of independence is deeply painful and can make them feel invisible and powerless.
Accommodation is another source of stress. Many asylum seekers are placed in government centres, such as Ipas centres, without consultation or choice. While these provide shelter, they are often overcrowded and offer little privacy.
Living conditions can be stressful, and locations may isolate people from education, services, and community support, making it difficult to feel settled or respected.
Language barriers add to daily struggles. Simple tasks like visiting a doctor or filling out forms become overwhelming.
Frequent relocations, unclear information, and sudden changes in rules create constant anxiety. Social isolation is common, as cultural differences and negative labels can lead to misunderstanding or discrimination.
Separation from family is one of the deepest pains. Worrying about loved ones who remain in danger creates ongoing emotional distress.
Despite these challenges, life as an asylum seeker is also a story of strength and resilience. Hope keeps me going — hope for safety, dignity, and the chance to rebuild my life. I do not seek sympathy, but understanding. I want to be seen not as a label, but as a human being with value, dreams and a voice.