LOS ANGELES — Eight-year-old Isabella loves school and playing, but beneath her bright spirit is a constant fear: Her mother Ingrid, who has Temporary Protected Status, could be taken away by immigration authorities.

Despite being a U.S. citizen, Isabella worries daily about losing her family, a fear shared by millions of children with undocumented parents.

Experts warn of the deep emotional toll immigration enforcement has on children, causing anxiety and distress.

According to the American Immigration Council, 4.4 million U.S.-citizen children under the age of 18 live with at least one undocumented parent as of 2018.

Denise Garcia, a marriage and family therapist who works with immigrant families, explained that the uncertainty surrounding immigration policies has a profound impact on children’s mental health.

"The fear of losing a parent can be overwhelming," Garcia said.

For now, Isabella takes comfort in the love of her family, holding on to every hug and moment she has with her mother.