Mental health conditions do not discriminate based on race, color, gender or identity. Anyone can experience the challenges of mental illness regardless of their background. However, your concerns or experiences and how you understand and cope with these conditions may be different.

Identity And Culture

Identity and culture for members of the Hispanic/Latinx community is as complex and rich as the history and trajectory of this population. In other words, there is no one Hispanic/Latinx culture.

It is important to appreciate these differences and understand how community members self-identify based on race, ethnicity, and/or national origin. Those who identify as Latino, Latina, Latine or Latinx may consider themselves of Latin American ancestry (Central America, South America or the Caribbean). Since the Spanish language is typically gendered, the terms Latine or Latinx are used to eliminate a binary choice (male vs. female) that is limiting and excluding to trans, gender fluid, or non-binary individuals. Those who identify as Hispanic may be referring to ancestors from Spain or other Spanish-speaking countries.

Since cultural identity is a construct shared by groups, recent immigrants may identify by their country of origin instead of as “Hispanic” or “Latinx.” It is also possible that members of this population may use different terms interchangeably.

Facts About Mental Health and Latino Communities

Common mental health conditions among Latinox are generalized anxiety disorder, major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and excessive use of alcohol and drugs. Additionally, suicide is a concern for Latinx youth.

35.1% of Hispanic/Latinx adults with mental illness receive treatment each year compared to the U.S. average of 46.2%. Without treatment, certain mental illnesses can worsen and become disabling.

Barriers to Mental Health Care for Latino Communities

Inequity

While Latinx communities show similar susceptibility to mental illness as the general population, unfortunately, we experience disparities in access to treatment and in the quality of treatment we receive. This inequality puts us at a higher risk for more severe and persistent forms of mental health conditions. Find out more about racial disparities in mental health and criminal justice.

Stigma

Overall, the Latinx community does not talk about mental health issues. There is little information about this topic. We cannot know what nobody has taught us. Many Latinxs do not seek treatment because they don’t recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions or know where to find help. Others do not seek treatment for fear of being labeled as “locos” (crazy) or as having a mental health condition because this may cause shame.

Privacy Concerns

Many of us know el dicho “la ropa sucia se lava en casa” (similar to “don’t air your dirty laundry in public”). Many Latinx communities tend to be very private and often do not want to talk in public about challenges at home. Seeking mental health treatment doesn’t mean you will lose your privacy. Your diagnosis, treatment plan and discussions with your mental health providers are confidential. They cannot share this information with others without your permission. Furthermore, mental health providers are professionals that understand what you are going through. They will listen without judgment.

Language Barriers

Language barriers can make communicating with doctors difficult. Many medical professionals today do speak some medical Spanish, particularly in parts of the country with large Latinx populations, but they may not necessarily understand cultural issues. If you or your loved one that needs help does not speak English, or does not speak it well, you have the right to receive language-access services at institutions that receive funding from the federal government. You have the right to request a trained interpreter and to receive forms and information in Spanish. Find out more about the need for more culturally competent therapists.

Lack Of Health Insurance

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, in 2019, 20.0% of nonelderly Hispanic people had no form of health insurance. In addition to facing an already limited pool of providers due to language barriers, people identifying as Hispanic/Latinx have even fewer options when they are uninsured.

Misdiagnosis

Due to cultural differences and/or lack of cultural competency, mental health providers may misunderstand or misdiagnose Hispanic/Latinx patients. For example, an individual may describe feeling “nervios” (nervousness), fatigue, headaches or other physical ailments. While these symptoms are consistent with depression, a provider without training on how culture influences a person’s interpretation of their symptoms is highly likely to misdiagnose them.

Legal Status

For immigrants who arrive without documentation, the fear of deportation can prevent them from seeking help. Even though millions of children of undocumented immigrants are eligible for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, many families may be afraid to register. If you do not have legal documentation, seek out clinics and resources that care for all members of the community. Latino-based organizations often provide services regardless of legal status.

Natural Medicine And Home Remedies

Some Latinos may prefer traditional healers and home remedies to deal with health-related issues. Mental health may not be an exception. If these healing methods are important to you, do use them. However, we encourage you to seek a mental health professional or a primary care doctor. Ask your doctor to make these healing practices part of your treatment plan. Mental health professionals have experience and knowledge of effective types of treatments and what may work for you. You may use both approaches in your road to recovery.

Faith And Spirituality

Faith and spirituality can provide support and help you deal with a mental health condition. If spirituality is important to you, talk to your doctors about how important faith is to you. Your spiritual practices can be a part of your treatment plan. Reach out to your spiritual leaders and faith community. They might be able to provide help and support during the difficult times caused by mental health conditions. At the same time, unfortunately, sometimes faith communities can be a source of additional distress if they are not well informed and do not know how to support families dealing with these conditions.

Resources and Help for Latino Communities

Fact sheets on mental health en Español from NAMI.

NAMI’s Compartiendo Esperanza Program
This 90-minute program aims to increase mental health awareness in Latino communities by sharing the presenters’ journeys to recovery and exploring signs and symptoms of mental health conditions. The program also highlights how and where to find help.

Support Groups and Classes
NAMI California offers free resources for those impacted by mental health conditions, including support groups and classes in Spanish. Find your local NAMI affiliate to find out more.

American Society of Hispanic Psychiatry
Promotes the research, education, advocacy and support for those in the Hispanic community. Offers a “Find a Physician” feature on their website.

Therapy for Latinx
A database of therapists who either identify as Latinx or has worked closely with and understands the unique needs of the Latinx community. The website is also offered in Spanish.

Latinx Therapy
A database for Latinx individuals seeking a diversity of mental health and wellness resources, courses and workshops. The website also offers a national directory to help find a therapist and navigate the patient/client-mental health provider journey.

Mental Health America’s Resources for Latinx/Hispanic Communities
General mental health Spanish-speaking resources, including a list of Spanish-language materials and Spanish-language screening tools.