As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it is crucial to shine a light on a topic that is often kept in the shadows within our community – mental health.
According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), only about one-third of Hispanic people with mental illness sought treatment or resources, compared with 50 percent of non-Hispanic white people. This gap in mental health services has not significantly narrowed since 2012 (Basurto, 2020). These statistics are a stark reminder of the challenges our community faces in addressing mental health. However, it’s not just about numbers; it’s about the lives behind those statistics. For far too long, mental health issues have been stigmatized or dismissed as something to be endured silently. It’s time for us to change this narrative. In the Hispanic community, we often take pride in our resilience, work ethic, close-knit families, and rich cultural heritage. However, it’s essential to recognize that strength isn’t just about facing adversity; it’s also about acknowledging our vulnerabilities and seeking help when needed.
My Personal Journey
I embarked on my journey towards improving my mental health during my first year of college, and it has not been an easy path. Anxiety and depression became unwelcome companions, impacting my life and studies. However, reaching out for help and talking about these challenges with my Mexican family, while initially met with skepticism, turned out to be a beautiful and transformative moment. When I first opened up to my family about my experiences, it was like unlocking a hidden door. I was surprised to see how many other family members had also struggled with their mental health. They, too, had suffered in silence, afraid of being viewed as weak. This moment of shared vulnerability brought us closer, and it was a turning point in my journey.
The Importance of Acceptance
Accepting these challenges as a part of our lives doesn’t make us weaker; it makes us human. In our community, saying you have a mental health condition can sometimes be met with disbelief and harsh illogical statements. Sadly, some still use derogatory terms like “loco” when referring to those suffering from conditions such as Bipolar disorder or Schizophrenia. Mental health issues may also be perceived as a form of making excuses for life’s challenges. However, it’s crucial to understand that mental health is as real as any physical ailment. Just like any of us can experience physical health problems, we can all face mental health struggles.
Seeking the Right Help
One valuable lesson I’ve learned along my mental health journey is the significance of seeking the right help for you. I encountered various therapists, but it was the one who provided me with practical coping mechanisms that truly made a difference. Don’t hesitate to explore different resources and professionals until you find what works best for you.
The Power of Holistic Well-being
Additionally, I realized the potential of holistic well-being. Combining therapy with a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices like meditation, can significantly contribute to our mental health. It’s crucial to strike a balance between seeking professional help and embracing holistic self-care.
Breaking the Silence Together
Mental health doesn’t discriminate based on culture or heritage. It’s a universal concern. And by addressing it within the Hispanic community, we not only help ourselves but also break the silence for future generations. By sharing our stories and raising awareness, we can empower others to seek help, support their loved ones, and be a part of the change we need. This Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s not only celebrate our strength, unity, and resilience but also reflect on the increasing awareness of the importance of mental health within our community. Together, let’s break the silence around mental health in the Hispanic community. Share your stories, support your loved ones, and seek help when needed. Join us in events and conversations about mental health. By doing so, we contribute to a healthier and happier future for our community, where seeking help for mental health is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness.
Jimmy Duenas