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:
- American Psychiatric Association
- National Alliance on Mental Illness
- PPI’s Hispanic Psychiatric Programs
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.
988 Anniversary and Launch of Spanish Chat and Text (Audio Description), from SAMHSA