5 Reasons Why Latinos Underutilize Mental Health Services
by: Laura Sanchez, LICSW, LADC
5 Reasons Why Latinos Underutilize Mental Health Services
Mental health problems are often stigmatized and off-limit topics for the Latino community. This creates shame and guilt, further increasing the issues while also feeling one must suffer in silence. The stigma of mental health issues increases the degree to which trauma, immigration, and acculturation is experienced. Further complicating things, Latinos face a multitude of systemic barriers that make accessing care difficult. Both of these factors result in the underutilization of mental health services. Below are five commonly listed reasons Latino clients give for not seeking care:
- Therapy is for “locos”
Due to cultural and religious influence, many Latinos believe that therapy is only for the severely ill. Seeking help could be a sign that one is not strong enough to deal with emotions on their own. - Therapists will not understand the Latino culture
Latino clients worry that they will have to teach the clinician or that they will be judged for their cultural beliefs. - Healthcare is difficult and complicated to navigate
Latino clients may have had previous negative experiences with the health care setting and may not feel confident in their ability to manage navigating it. Additionally, clients may worry of the legal implications of seeking care (i.e., such as when a client is undocumented). - Therapy will be in English
The availability of services in the client’s language is unavailable - The cost of care is more than the client can afford
Latinos are the minority group with the highest uninsured community. Nearly 37% of Latinos report no or inadequate insurance coverage.
