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Celebrating Progress and Addressing Challenges in Hispanic Mental Health

As we commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month, we must acknowledge the progress and challenges in Hispanic and Latinx mental health. Today, almost 20% of the U.S. population identifies as Hispanic or Latinx (2020 U.S. Census), yet this community faces unique barriers to mental health services and care. Below, we’ll delve into the advancements and continuing obstacles that require our attention.

Reflecting on Progress

Improved Awareness
Over the years, an increasing focus on mental health has slowly decreased the stigma associated with seeking help for mental illness in the Hispanic and Latinx community. Efforts by health care organizations, advocacy groups and culturally competent providers have made strides in raising awareness about the importance of mental health.

Growing Availability of Culturally Competent Care
Awareness of cultural sensitivities and understanding of the linguistic needs of the community have led to the growing availability of culturally competent care. Providers are now more aware that terms like “Me duele el corazón” are expressions of emotional distress rather than symptoms of a cardiac issue. This has led to more effective diagnoses and treatment plans that respect the patient’s cultural background.

Community Support
Strong familial ties, often summed up in the term “familismo,” have long been a bedrock of emotional support within the Hispanic and Latinx community. These family bonds often act as informal emotional support networks, enhancing mental well-being.

Acknowledging Ongoing Challenges

Lack of Insurance and High Poverty Rates
The poverty rate for Hispanic and Latinx Americans is nearly two times higher than that for non-Hispanic Whites, and nearly 18% lack health insurance (“Poverty Rate by Race/Ethnicity,” KFF, September 2023). These financial barriers severely limit access to mental health services.

Language Barriers
Language remains a significant challenge. Hispanic and Latinx Americans often face difficulties communicating their mental health needs effectively, particularly when health care providers are not fluent in Spanish or other dialects common to this community.

Stigma and Cultural Barriers
Despite improvements, stigma still plagues the community. Phrases like “la ropa sucia se lava en casa” (“don’t air your dirty laundry in public”) perpetuate this stigma, deterring many from seeking help. Discrimination and experiences of racism also add layers of stress and emotional turmoil, exacerbating mental health issues.

Systemic Obstacles
From a systemic perspective, there is a severe shortage of health care providers from diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds, leading to cultural misunderstandings that can result in misdiagnoses. In addition, immigrants without documentation may avoid seeking help due to the fear of deportation, further marginalizing these vulnerable individuals.

The Path Forward

Enhancing Cultural Competency
Health care providers must be trained in cultural competency, focusing on how Hispanic and Latinx Americans experience and express mental health conditions.

Community Engagement and Education
Promoting mental health literacy and decreasing stigma within the community is crucial. This can be accomplished through educational programs, community workshops and media campaigns tailored to the cultural sensitivities of the Hispanic and Latinx community.

Policy Changes
Systemic issues require systemic solutions. Policy changes can facilitate better access to quality health care for this population, especially those financially disadvantaged or undocumented.

Ensuring Linguistic and Cultural Accessibility
Mental health services should be available in multiple languages, and interpreters should be readily available. Moreover, health care providers should proactively inquire about the patient and family’s preferred language.

As we celebrate the rich history and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx Americans during this month, let us not forget our collective responsibility towards improving mental health for this community. With a concerted effort from all sectors—health care, policy and community—we can build on the progress made and continue to break down the barriers to mental health care.

PPI is committed to offering culturally competent, accessible care for everyone. During this Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s come together to celebrate progress and strive for a future where quality mental health care is accessible to all.

Visit the below resources to learn more about mental health and the Hispanic and Latinx communities:

Learn more about PPI’s Services

Understanding and communicating mental health needs in one’s native language can make all the difference. At PPI, we are dedicated to serving the Spanish-speaking community, ensuring they have access to quality care tailored to their unique needs. Our bilingual team provides outpatient services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy for children (aged five and up), adolescents and adults. We emphasize family involvement, delivering comprehensive treatment with cultural sensitivity. Here, language is no barrier to mental well-being.

Visit our website to learn more.

Understanding Machismo: Challenging Stereotypes and Mental Health Implications in the Hispanic Community

Machismo, a term with roots deep in Hispanic culture, encapsulates traditional notions of masculinity, emphasizing attributes such as strength, honor and dominance. The Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) recognizes the rich tapestry of cultural traditions but acknowledges that, sometimes, the undue stress of certain societal expectations can manifest in mental health challenges. Through our ongoing commitment to education, PPI seeks to highlight the multifaceted implications of machismo and suggest pathways to foster mental well-being within the Hispanic community.

Research spanning the last two decades (American Journal of Men’s Health. 2023 Mar-Apr) has consistently indicated that individuals identifying with male genders are less likely to engage with health services, especially mental health, when compared to their female-identifying counterparts. This is exacerbated by societal expectations anchored in traditional masculine values. Such expectations often make individuals reluctant to seek assistance, fearing that doing so might be perceived as a sign of weakness or a challenge to their masculine identity. Direct experiences, such as facing criticism or name-calling when expressing their struggles, deter these individuals from seeking the help they need.

Notably, traditional masculinity doesn’t just deter seeking help; it can also influence how men cope with mental health challenges. There is a marked trend toward high-risk behaviors like substance abuse, seen as an outcome of reduced ability to recognize declining mental health, social withdrawal during challenging times, and a preference for tangible coping mechanisms over emotional vulnerability.

Machismo [ mah-cheez-moh, -chiz-, muh- ] noun a strong sense of masculine pride; an exaggerated masculinity

What is Machismo?

Machismo, deeply woven into the fabric of Latinx culture, is best described as a profound sense of masculine pride. It transcends mere terminology and has become so integral to Hispanic traditions that its presence is often expected and even celebrated. Despite its ubiquity, studies on Latinx groups frequently overlook machismo’s multifaceted implications. In its essence, within Latin American societies, machismo characterizes a pattern where those presenting as male may display an authoritative demeanor towards those they perceive as lesser, expecting unequivocal deference. While the term is frequently associated with negative attributes—such as aggression, robust physical demeanor, emotional detachment and womanizing—it’s crucial to recognize the positive dimensions within traditional Latinx settings. The ideal “varón” is not just the stereotypical “macho” man but is also envisioned as someone compassionate, responsible, resolute, morally strong, and the pillar of the extended family (American Journal of Health Studies Vol. 13, issue 1, (1997)). It’s this duality of machismo—combining commendable traits with the more critiqued ones—that underscores its complexity in the Latinx culture.

The Intersection of Machismo and Mental Health

Research has illuminated the correlations between machismo and mental health. A 2021 study from California State University focusing on the Latinx adults indicates a strong linkage between higher machismo levels and elevated levels of stress and depression. Reinforcing this, prior research has found individuals with deep-seated beliefs in gender norms, like machismo, exhibit increased symptoms of anger, anxiety and depression.

Machismo Beyond Mental Well-being

Machismo’s influence isn’t limited to emotional health. Data suggests a significant negative association between machismo and education levels. Simplistically, as education levels rise, machismo adherence appears to decline. A direct positive correlation was also observed between education and income, emphasizing education’s role in socio-economic advancement.

Paving a Way Forward

Educational Focus
Given the correlation data, bolstering educational initiatives for the Hispanic community can play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by machismo.

Enhanced Cultural Training
PPI advocates for enhanced cultural competency for professionals, especially those serving the Latinx community. A nuanced understanding of cultural norms can pave the way for more effective therapeutic strategies.

Reframing Masculinity
Reframing promotes a change in perspective towards traditional masculine values, leveraging positive aspects of these values for better mental health outcomes. For instance, traits like competitiveness can be channeled toward perseverance and active health management.

Strengthen Community Engagement
Mental health, unfortunately, bears a stigma in many cultures, including the Latinx community. By fostering community outreach programs, dialogues can be initiated that normalize mental health discussions.

Encouraging Openness
Addressing the stigma associated with seeking mental health services, especially within a community influenced by machismo, is paramount. Tailored programs encouraging the Latinx community to embrace mental health services can make significant inroads.

The Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute is dedicated to understanding the delicate balance between cultural traditions and mental health. Through education and outreach, we aspire to support the Hispanic community in navigating the complexities of tradition while championing mental well-being for all.

Learn more about PPI’s Services

Understanding and communicating mental health needs in one’s native language can make all the difference. At PPI, we are dedicated to serving the Spanish-speaking community, ensuring they have access to quality care tailored to their unique needs. Our bilingual team provides outpatient services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management and therapy for children (aged five and up), adolescents and adults. We emphasize family involvement, delivering comprehensive treatment with cultural sensitivity. Here, language is no barrier to mental well-being.

Visit our website to learn more.

Empowering Lives Through Voting and Mental Health Awareness

In central Pennsylvania, voting is a powerful way to support the community and contribute to important decisions that affect everyone’s well-being. Julie Graziane, MD, associate professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at Penn State College of Medicine, is leading an initiative at the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), a Penn State Health enterprise, to help individuals, especially those with mental health challenges, understand the impact of their vote.

“The act of voting allows us to have our voices heard and the issues we care about brought to the table,” highlights Graziane, MD.

Register to vote. Vote for Your Health!

Why Voting is Important

By voting, individuals can ensure their opinion is considered when leaders make decisions that affect their daily lives, helping to shape policies that provide better support, access to care and overall well-being for themselves and their communities. For nearly one in five adults in the U.S. who have experienced a mental health condition, voting is an opportunity for them to be heard and to highlight the issues that are important to them. “When people vote, it reinforces the idea that their voice matters, that they matter,” Graziane adds.

Beyond the importance of having one’s voice heard, voting impacts mental health. Civic engagement, including voting, is associated with decreased depressive symptoms and risky health-related behaviors. Focus group data indicates that political participation is an important element of psychiatric recovery. Election outcomes affect access to housing, health care, transportation, neighborhood safety and other public resources*. This suggests that voting is beneficial for mental health and impacts key social determinants of health, which in turn affect mental well-being.

Mental Health and Voting

Individuals who have experienced mental health challenges often face obstacles like a lack of awareness about their voting rights or difficulty navigating the registration process. These barriers can make it harder for them to participate in elections. However, when they do engage in voting, it can have a profoundly positive impact by empowering them to influence policies that directly affect their care and overall well-being. “Voting is a way for people with mental health conditions to have their voices heard on issues that directly impact their care,” says Graziane.

Barriers to Voting

“A major barrier is that many people are not fully informed about their voting rights or how to navigate the registration process,” Graziane notes.

At PPI, a dedicated, nonpartisan team works to remove barriers that individuals experiencing mental health challenges often face in the voting process. The team helps individuals understand their voting rights, assists with registration using digital tools and guides them on where and when they can vote legally. They provide crucial education on the importance of voting, helping individuals make connections between the act of voting and the policies and laws that govern everyday issues, like access to care, housing and recovery-oriented services. This support ensures that people are informed, registered and ready to participate in elections.

The Pennsylvania Department of State offers essential guidance on PA.gov for those getting ready to vote in the upcoming election:

  • Eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old on Election Day and a U.S. citizen having lived in the Pennsylvania election district for your residential address for at least 30 days before the election
  • Registration Methods: You can register to vote online, by mail, or in person at locations like the Department of Motor Vehicles
  • Deadlines: You must be registered at least 15 days before the election
  • Checking Registration: You should verify your voter registration status online to ensure it is accurate and current

Pennsylvanians who need voting information or encounter voting problems can call the State’s year-round voter hotline, 1-877-868-3772.

Managing Election Stress

Elections can be stressful, especially for those with preexisting mental health conditions. Graziane advises, “Like with any stressful situation, it’s important to be aware of your boundaries and recognize what might trigger additional stress.” She encourages using coping strategies like mindfulness and deep breathing to manage election-related anxiety.

“The options of voting by mail or using tools to prepare before entering the voting booth can also reduce stress, allowing people to vote on their terms,” she adds. These options, along with others based on recovery-orientated principles, are part of the advice the PPI team offers.

Encouraging Others to Vote

Graziane encourages all health care providers to discuss voting with their patients. “Voting is a vital part of our democracy, and it’s disheartening to see segments of the population face barriers to participating,” she says. She stresses the importance of approaching the topic in a neutral, nonpartisan way, ensuring patients feel empowered without added pressure.

Voting is not just about choosing candidates; it’s a way for individuals to engage with their community and influence the policies that affect their lives. With the support of programs like the one at PPI, more people are finding their voice through voting.

Your Community, Your Vote

This two-part non-partisan document series focuses on why voting is important and how practitioners can support individuals experiencing mental health challenges to vote.

Your Community, Your Vote! Why Voting Matters
Your Community, Your Vote! A Case Example of Promoting Voting from the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute

Download here



*Graziane JA, Ghahramani A, Bowen JL, Horton S, Swigart A, Kunkel E, Dalke KB. Psychiatry’s Obligation to Promote Voting Among Patients With Mental Illness. Psychiatr Serv. 2023 Dec 1;74(12):1291-1293. doi: 10.1176/appi.ps.20230006. Epub 2023 Jun 8. PMID: 37287229.

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated each year from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, is a time to appreciate and celebrate the colorful cultures, rich histories and diversity of the American Latino community. Every year, we come together to honor the community’s history, heritage and contributions, recognizing the impact Hispanic and Latino Americans have had on the nation’s culture and society.

El Mes de la Herencia Hispana se celebra todos los años del 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre. Es un momento para valorar y celebrar las culturas coloridas, las historias profundas y la diversidad de la comunidad latina de los EE. UU. Cada año, nos reunimos para honrar la historia, el patrimonio y las contribuciones de la comunidad. Reconocemos el impacto que los hispanos y los latinoamericanos han tenido en la cultura y la sociedad del país.

National Recovery Month

September marks National Recovery Month, a nationwide initiative dedicated to promoting and supporting evidence-based treatment and recovery practices. It celebrates the resilience and strength of the recovery community and recognizes the commitment of service providers and community members who make recovery possible.

September is National Recovery Month

Substance Use Disorder Resources for Central Pennsylvania

Living in central Pennsylvania, many of us know someone who may be facing a substance use disorder. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in 14 Americans struggles with this issue, often stemming from stress, trauma, mental health challenges or misuse of prescribed opioids. Signs of addiction include declining work or school performance, physical neglect, behavioral changes and financial issues. It’s important to recognize these signs and seek help.

“Asking for help is a crucial step towards recovery. Finding the right resources can make a significant difference in your journey to sobriety,” says Dr. Sarah S. Kawasaki, Addiction Services Director at the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI), a Penn State Health enterprise. “Utilize the available support systems, and don’t hesitate to reach out.”

Fortunately, there are local resources available to assist with screening, treatment and recovery:

Local Government Support

Residents of Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry and York counties have access to a continuum of quality substance abuse prevention, intervention and treatment services. While each county is different, community drug and alcohol services are generally offered at no cost. More details are available on the counties’ websites:

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline

The SAMHSA National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. It provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups and community-based organizations. The helpline is available in English and Spanish and supports those without health insurance.

The helpline is available at no cost by dialing 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

You can learn more about SAMHSA by visiting SAMHSA.gov.

Sober Apps

Apps can significantly aid the recovery process by providing tools for tracking sobriety, connecting with support networks, accessing counseling and receiving motivational reminders. These features help individuals maintain their commitment to recovery, monitor their progress and find immediate support when facing challenges.

Below are five apps highlighted by the US Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) resource for parents, educators and caregivers, “Get Smart About Drugs.”

Peer Support Groups

Peer support groups are crucial in recovery from substance use disorders for several reasons. They provide emotional support and understanding from those with similar experiences, reducing feelings of isolation and stigma. These groups offer practical advice and coping strategies, fostering a sense of community and accountability. Peer support enhances motivation and commitment to recovery by sharing successes and challenges. Additionally, these groups often provide resources and information about treatment options and other supportive services.

Numerous support groups are available, but USA.gov recommends the following:

  • Alcoholics Anonymous is a global fellowship of individuals who share their experiences, strength and hope with each other to solve their common problems and help others recover from alcoholism.
  • Al-Anon is a support group for friends and families of problem drinkers, offering a space to share experiences, find understanding and develop effective ways to cope with the challenges associated with a loved one’s alcoholism.
  • Alateen is a support group for teenagers (ages 13 to 18) affected by someone else’s alcoholism, providing a space to share experiences, strength and hope to cope with their challenges.
  • Narcotics Anonymous is a worldwide group that offers support to individuals recovering from drug addiction through shared experiences and a twelve-step program.
  • NAR-Anon is a support group for family members and friends of individuals struggling with addiction, providing a community for sharing experiences and finding strength.
  • SMART Recovery is a science-based program that supports individuals in overcoming addictive behaviors by promoting self-empowerment and self-reliance through its four-point program, which includes building and maintaining motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts and behaviors and living a balanced life.

Advancement In Recovery (AIR) Program

The AIR Program by PPI offers comprehensive Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder. The program includes services such as methadone maintenance, daily Suboxone or Subutex, Vivitrol and Naltrexone treatments, individual and group counseling, intensive outpatient programming, family therapy and various support group meetings. The AIR team consists of experienced medical doctors and clinicians who support patients throughout all phases of treatment.

Learn more by calling the PPI Admissions Department at 717-782-6420 or by visiting the AIR website.

NEXT Distro

The NEXT Distro program in Pennsylvania offers free naloxone (Narcan) by mail to individuals at risk of opioid overdoses. This life-saving medication can reverse overdoses, helping to prevent fatalities. The program also provides educational resources on overdose response and supports harm reduction strategies. No prescription is needed to access naloxone through this initiative.

Learn more by visiting NextDistro.org.

Drug Take-Back Locations

The Prescription Drug Take-Back Program by Pennsylvania’s Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) focuses on preventing the misuse of prescription drugs by offering safe disposal options for unused medications. It encourages locking up medications, not sharing them and using designated drug take-back boxes or disposal pouches. The DEA designates acceptable items, while items like hydrogen peroxide and illicit drugs are not accepted.

The DEA allows for the disposal of the following medications:

  • Over-the-counter medications
  • Prescription medications
  • Prescription patches
  • Prescription ointments
  • Vitamins
  • Pet medicines

You can find the closest location by visiting the DDAP website.

Asking for Help

“Remember, it’s important to ask for help if you or someone you know is struggling with substance use. Utilizing the local resources listed can be a crucial step towards recovery,” says Dr. Kawasaki. “Additionally, you can contact PPI for support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling their admissions department at 1-866-746-2496. Seeking assistance is a courageous and necessary step.”

For more information on finding help, visit Pennsylvania’s DDAP or PPI websites.

Challenging the Addiction Stigma

In our society, addiction is often misunderstood and vilified, leading to profound stigmatization of those with substance use disorders. This stigma can manifest as negative attitudes, discrimination, and biases that create significant barriers to recovery. Given the devastating impact of drug overdoses on American lives—with over 100,000 fatalities in the United States during 2023*—it is crucial that we address this issue head-on.

The History of Stigma

Stigma, derived from Latin and Greek, originally referred to a mark signifying disgrace. In today’s context, it alludes to labeling, discrimination and stereotyping. One of the prevalent misconceptions is that addiction is a personal choice and reflects a moral failing. Such beliefs are deep-rooted and persistent, not only in the general public but also among professionals, including those in the health care industry.

There is an abundance of evidence demonstrating that stigma adversely affects the health and well-being of those with substance use disorders. It creates a barrier to accessing quality care in clinical settings. The urgency to combat this stigma cannot be stressed enough.

“At PPI, we believe that every individual deserves a chance at a brighter tomorrow. Our commitment isn’t just to treat symptoms but to empower each patient with knowledge, understanding and the tools to rebuild their lives,” says Joel Thomas, a counselor 1 at PPI.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) further underscores that the stigma against those with substance use disorders hampers effective treatment. Many aren’t aware that substance use disorders are caused by changes in the brain that render drug use a compulsion, often leading to behaviors that further alienate and stereotype individuals with addiction.

“Mental health care isn’t a luxury but a lifeline for those with substance use disorders. It’s the bridge that connects despair to hope, isolation to community and illness to healing,” emphasizes Dr. Sarah Sharfstein Kawasaki, MD, assistant professor of Psychiatry and director of Addiction Services at PPI.

The onus is on health care providers and society at large to understand and treat substance use disorders for what they truly are: chronic yet treatable medical conditions. Individuals grappling with these disorders deserve empathy, compassion and respect.

The Power of Language

One way to combat this damaging stigma is through our words. The National Institute on Drug Abuse emphasizes the importance of “person-first” language. Rather than label someone as a “substance abuser”, we should say “person with a substance use disorder,” recognizing their humanity first. Such shifts in language, while seemingly small, can have profound effects on how individuals with substance use disorders are perceived and treated.

Societal Inequities and Stigma

Systemic issues, such as racism, can compound the challenges faced by those with substance use disorders. Discrimination can increase susceptibility to these issues and impede access to vital treatments. These inequalities further underline the urgency of fostering understanding and compassion in our approach to addiction.

Learn About Non-Stigmatizing Language

A Call to Action

Each one of us has a role to play in reducing stigma. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, researcher, family member or someone directly affected by substance use, it’s imperative to:

  • Use appropriate, non-stigmatizing language.
  • Educate yourself and others about the nature and causes of addiction.
  • Advocate for accessible, evidence-based treatments.
  • Stand against systemic discrimination that intensifies stigma.

PPI’s Commitment: The AIR Program

Understanding the complex nature of addiction and the importance of compassionate, expert care, PPI introduced the Advancement in Recovery (AIR) Program. This comprehensive Medication Assisted Treatment Program is tailor-made for individuals grappling with Opioid Use Disorder.

The AIR team is a group of dedicated medical doctors and clinicians with profound expertise in handling opioid use disorders and transitioning patients to Buprenorphine, Methadone and Vivitrol. These experts stand by patients through every phase of treatment, providing not just medical intervention, but also the emotional and psychological support essential for recovery.

Stigma can be a formidable adversary in the battle against addiction. However, with informed perspectives, compassionate approaches, and evidence-based treatments like the AIR program, we can create a society where individuals with SUDs receive the support and understanding they so rightly deserve.

*U.S. Overdose Deaths Decrease in 2023, First Time Since 2018 (cdc.gov)

Coming Up For AIR: An Innovative Treatment Program Provides Hope for Patients

September is National Recovery Month. Each September, we aim to educate our community about substance use disorders and promote our services that help those with substance use disorders live healthy and rewarding lives.

The hard work that goes into a successful treatment plan often goes unnoticed, and National Recovery Month celebrates the achievements made by everyone in recovery by reinforcing the positive actions they have taken to regain their health. We are proud of our staff members who help to facilitate the recovery process, but we are the proudest of our patients who have put in the work and have been successful in their recovery.

Opioid use disorder is everywhere, and central Pennsylvania is no exception. Statewide, Pennsylvania has some of the highest overdose rates in our nation. In 2023, the Dauphin County Coroner ruled that 125 people died by drug overdose in Dauphin County alone.

The epidemic is overwhelming, but it is important to remember that people do recover. It is possible to overcome addiction. You are not alone. It’s just a matter of reaching out for help and getting connected with effective, evidence-based and comprehensive treatment.

PPI provides help with their innovative Advancement In Recovery (AIR) Program. Through a combination of medication-assisted treatment and intensive counseling, people with opioid use disorder are getting a second chance to live a fulfilling life.

We treat patients with respect and compassion. Substance use disorder is a medical issue - a progressive, chronic disease - and we approach it with a prescribed set of treatments like any other disease.

If you would like to speak to someone about taking the first step to recovery, or to make an appointment, please call 717-782-6493 for more information.

Sources:
2023-Drug-Death-Report.pdf (dauphincounty.gov)

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth: Fostering Mental Health and Well-being

The Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute (PPI) is committed to fostering the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth, a particularly vulnerable population in Central Pennsylvania. We believe that creating a nurturing and accepting environment can significantly improve their mental health outcomes. Within this article, we share actionable advice for allies, parents, educators and mental health professionals to effectively support these youth and promote their resilience.

Strengthen Social Support Networks

Social support plays a pivotal role in LGBTQ+ youth’s well-being. Parents, family members, teachers, friends and classmates can provide emotional backing and resources to counter potential hardships.

What can you do?

  • Offer acceptance. A high level of acceptance from friends and family reduces suicide ideation and attempts among LGBTQ+ youth.
  • Encourage the building of relationships with both LGBTQ+ and non-LGBTQ+ allies to foster resilience and create a sense of community.

LGBTQ+ Role Models for Kids: Megan Rapinoe, Soccer Player; Mauree Turner, U.S. State Lawmaker; Nyle DiMarco, Model; Schuyler Bailar, Swimmer; Wednesday Holmes, Visual Artist; Lindsay Amer, YouTuber; X González, Activist; Admiral Rachel L. Levine, MD, Assistant Secretary for Health

Encourage Access to Role Models

Positive portrayals of LGBTQ+ individuals in media and real life can evoke hope and reduce feelings of isolation among LGBTQ+ youth.

What can you do?

  • Introduce the LGBTQ+ youth in your circle to role models they can relate to.
  • Connect with local support network in the Harrisburg, Lancaster, Lebanon and York areas.

Cultivate Supportive Environments

Schools, homes and communities that are inclusive and protective positively impact LGBTQ+ youth’s mental well-being.

What can you do?

  • Encourage your local schools to endorse the formation of Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) and enforce comprehensive anti-bullying policies.
  • Request local businesses establish all-gender bathrooms.

Develop Coping Mechanisms

Promoting safe spaces where LGBTQ+ youth can explore positive coping skills such as seeking LGBTQ+ resources, practicing mindfulness and talking to supportive individuals is essential to their mental health and well-being.

What can you do?

  • If you are an educator, counselor or health professional, demonstrate that your office is a safe zone, encouraging LGBTQ+ youth to share their experiences without fear of judgment.

Keep Learning

Continual education about LGBTQ+ identities and challenges is fundamental to effective support.

What can you do?

Eliminate Shame

Acknowledge and affirm LGBTQ+ youth’s experiences.

What can you do?

  • Start nonjudgmental discussions to encourage open dialogue.
  • Practice active listening.
  • Avoid dismissive statements. For example, “It’s just a phase” or “You’re too young to know.”
  • If you witness any behavior or language that is disrespectful or harmful towards LGBTQ+ people, address it immediately.

Affirm Their Individuality

Treat LGBTQ+ youth like any other child to reinforce their sense of normalcy and belonging.

What can you do?

  • Show interest in their passions and acknowledge their achievements to foster their confidence and self-worth.

Respect Their Coming Out Process

Navigating the complex journey of self-disclosure is a deeply personal process for LGBTQ+ youth. Support them during this transformative period by respecting their autonomy and preparing them for potential challenges.

What can you do?

  • Allow LGBTQ+ youth to determine their timeline and the people they wish to disclose their identities to.
  • Ensure they feel prepared to handle potentially challenging situations by helping them to strengthen their self-assurance.

Seek LGBTQ+ Affirming Health Care Providers

Identifying physical and mental health providers who affirm and support LGBTQ+ individuals can significantly improve their well-being.

What can you do?

With understanding, compassion and the right tools, we can all contribute to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth. Your support can make all the difference.

“In the journey towards mental wellness, remember you’re not alone. Reaching out isn’t a sign of defeat, but a victory over stigma. At PPI, we’re your allies, steadfast in the belief that everyone deserves understanding and compassionate care.”
– Ruth S. Moore, director of community engagement, diversity & inclusion

If you’d like to learn more about the PPI’s approach to LGBTQ+ mental health, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone, 866-746-2496 or through our website. We’re committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming space where everyone can access the care and support they need.