The Hispanic/Latinx community in the U.S. is very diverse, including people from many different nations and regions of the world. Individuals of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central American and South American descent have been part of the American cultural tapestry for centuries. As with any community, the mental health needs and experiences of Hispanic/Latinx people vary among subgroups.
While there is great diversity within this community, there are some shared cultural factors that connect people regardless of ancestry or national origin. For some, their indigenous roots are a source of pride. A large portion of this community speak Spanish. There is also a shared connection of religious affiliations, strong family bonds, connections to extended networks and a resilient approach to life and work. Another common value in this community is “familismo,” a cultural foundation that emphasizes connectedness and a strong attachment and duty to one’s family. READ MORE
Source: NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness
- Supporting the Mental Health Needs of Hispanic and Latino Youth
- NIMH webinar: Engaging Community Stakeholders to Reduce Mental Health Inequities in the Hispanic Community
- Behavioral Health Equity: Hispanic and Latino Americans
- Mental Health Resources for Latinx/Hispanic Community
- Publicaciones acerca trastornos de la salud mental y temas relacionados
Source: https://nimh.nih.gov
The Latinx/Hispanic community is made up of diverse individuals oftentimes set apart by their country of origin or ancestral history.
For the Latinx/Hispanic community, mental health and mental illness are often stigmatized topics resulting in prolonged suffering in silence. This silence compounds the range of experiences that may lead to mental health conditions including immigration, acculturation, trauma, and generational conflicts. Additionally, the Latinx/Hispanic community faces unique institutional and systemic barriers that may impede access to mental health services, resulting in reduced help-seeking behaviors. READ MORE
Source: Mental Health America