Latine and Hispanic mental health: Historical context and cultural beliefs
Historical context
A mix of Indigenous and colonial heritage, Latine and Hispanic cultures vary greatly in regions across the U.S. People from Mexico and Puerto Rico make up the vast majority of these populations. The label “Latine and Hispanic” consists of those who are from Latin America or who come from a country that was or is primarily Spanish speaking. But not all Latine individuals are Hispanic, and not all Hispanic individuals are Latine. There are more than 20 different countries that make up these groups. They each have different cultures, beliefs, and experiences.
Throughout history, many Latine and Hispanic communities have faced political unrest, war, and oppression. This has often taken place at the hands of U.S. government interventions, such as in Bolivia, Cuba, and Guatemala, to name a few. These eras of oppression led to a large number of internationally displaced persons. This is a contributing factor of the existing immigration crisis in the U.S. and has led to a high amount of undocumented individuals.
Not all Latine and Hispanic communities crossed borders to get to the U.S., though. A large number of Mexican American families predate present-day U.S. territories. This includes before the U.S. took over much of what once was Mexico. Additionally, Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens with limited citizenship rights. (The territory is not officially recognized as a U.S. state).
There have been many contributions to U.S. culture by Latine and Hispanic communities and individuals, specifically food, music, language, and politics. There is no doubt that these communities have made their marks on U.S. society in various ways.
Cultural beliefs
Mental health can be a complex topic in many Latine and Hispanic communities. There is often a need to hide one’s struggles to appear strong and capable. Often, these communities view themselves as resilient individuals who have overcome immense challenges. This can lead them to overlook their need for mental health support.
Latine and Hispanic communities tend to maintain the following core beliefs:
- Familismo: the importance of families
- Personalismo/Simpatia: the importance of prioritizing rapport building
- Respeto: the importance of respect toward others, especially elders and authority figures
- Confianza: the importance of trust, confidence, and mutual reciprocity in a relationship
Many Latine and Hispanic individuals in the U.S. are immigrants or the descendents of immigrants. They may straddle many worlds: one in which they live and one in which their family is from. Identity can be complex for children of immigrants. This can cause individuals to suffer from feelings of inadequacy and displacement. It can also prevent them from getting the culturally affirming support they need.
Religion can be a protective factor for mental health in Latine and Hispanic communities, but it can also contribute to the stigma against mental health treatment. People may believe that demons, a lack of faith, or sinful behavior caused the mental health condition. Targeting religious institutions to help encourage good mental health and treatment-seeking is important.
Latine and Hispanic communities may also believe that discussing mental health challenges can create shame for the family. Many people in these communities may be familiar with the phrase, "la ropa sucia se lava en casa." This is similar to the phrase, "don't air your dirty laundry in public." The belief in privacy and silence can result in fewer people seeking treatment.
Take a Mental Health Test
If you are struggling with your mental health, take an anonymous, free, and private mental health test. It only takes a few minutes, and after you are finished you will be given information about the next steps you can take based on the results.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741741.