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Wednesday, November 30, 2011

The Hispanic Population and Mental Illness


Many Hispanics depend on their family, the Hispanic community, and their churches for help with health crises.  Hispanics with mental illness often go without professional mental health treatment Because of cultural differences.


Studies have shown that older Hispanic adults and youth are vulnerable to mental disorders due to the stress of immigration and learning to live in a culturally different environment. Many older Hispanic Americans find it difficult to adjust to the new society. Their traditional values and beliefs are at odds with the new culture, have to cross the language barriers and depend on family for care.

 Younger Hispanics also have been found to be at risk for higher levels of emotional distress because of the pressures to rapidly adapt to the new culture as well as inequality, poverty, and discrimination.

  The have trouble relating to their new mor3e3s of society yet aqdhe3re to the traditional values held by their parents.

Lack of access to mental health services is serious problem in the Hispanic community. Hispanic Americans use mental-health services far less than other ethnic and racial groups. They are also uninsured in America limiting access to care.  The lack of interpreters and bilingual health care providers can interfere with appropriate evaluation, treatment, and emergency response.

 Some Hispanics have different attitudes about seeking mental health services, and may feel highly stigmatized for asking for help.  Affected individuals may not recognize their symptoms as those that require the attention of mental health specialists.
Mental health services need to be receptive to the cultural needs of Hispanics; and also bridge the language barriers. With proper care and treatment most mental illneswses can be controlled.


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