Latinx Mental Health
Written by Victoria Delgadillo, MC, LAC, NCC
As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to an end, here at Amanda Hope, we feel that it is important to discuss the importance of mental health in all cultures.
When trying to seek help for mental health, some populations are faced with barriers that can keep them from getting the help they need. Many minority populations are affected not only by economic barriers but also social and societal barriers. For some Latinx and Hispanic families, mental health resources may seem far out of reach.
The stigma against seeking help for mental health is found among all communities, including Latinx communities. Some Latinx families may experience a sense of cultural pride that may make it more difficult to seek help—being told to “toughen up” and “get over” their struggles and emotions. Lack of access to health insurance, language barriers, legal status, and therapists lacking cultural competence are a few barriers that Hispanic/Latinx communities may face when searching for mental health resources.
When meeting with a counselor, you are allowed to ask them questions to get a sense of their understanding of different cultures. It is important to communicate your wants and needs with your counselor. Questions you may want to ask can include:
Have you worked with someone with a similar cultural background as my own?
How do you feel my cultural background will influence our sessions and further treatment?
How can we address my concerns as they come up throughout sessions?
Overall, it is important to be comfortable when seeking services for mental health. It can feel like an intimidating and overwhelming task; however, guidance and knowing what you want to get out of counseling will make the experience more enjoyable.
If you or a loved one are struggling, our counseling team at Amanda Hope is available to provide you the support you deserve. If you are interested in seeking support through our FREE counseling services, please click the button below to fill out our application.
*Counseling services are available to families in Arizona impacted by childhood cancer or another life-threatening illness
OUR COMFORT AND CARE COUNSELING SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE FOR WARRIORS, THEIR SIBLINGS, AND THEIR PARENTS/CAREGIVERS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE THEM WITH THE CARE AND SUPPORT THEY NEED TO WORK THROUGH DIFFICULT TIMES.
References:
https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Identity-and-Cultural-Dimensions/Hispanic-Latinx
https://www.mhanational.org/issues/latinxhispanic-communities-and-mental-health