The State of Latino Mental Health

By Rep. Alma Hernández (AZ), Chair of NHCL's Healthcare Task Force

Download the 2024 Spring Edition of NHCSL's Newsletter here.

Latinos face a multitude of challenges that can significantly impact their mental health. From navigating cultural identity and language barriers to confronting systemic inequalities and discrimination, the pressures on our communities can weigh heavily. Moreover, factors such as socioeconomic status, immigration status, and access to healthcare further create barriers to mental wellness.

Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA), found that the poverty rate of Hispanics is nearly two times higher (17%) than non-Hispanic white Americans (9.5%) causing nearly 18% of Hispanics the decline of health insurance in 2021, compared to about 6% of non-Hispanic white Americans.

This treatment gap is often attributed to factors such as the stigma surrounding mental health within Latino communities, a shortage of culturally competent mental health providers, and systemic barriers to accessing care. The Agency for Healthcare Re-search and Quality (AHRQ) analyzed healthcare disparities in the United States which highlighted significant disparities in mental health treatment among Latino popula-tions. The report indicated that Latinos were less likely to receive mental health care, even when controlling for factors such as insurance status and income.

Addressing these disparities requires an approach that acknowledges the unique cultural and contextual factors influencing mental health. First and foremost, destigmatizing conversations around mental health within Latino communities is essential.

Prioritizing the social determinants of mental health remains essential. NHCSL Res. 2021-14 Raising Awareness about the Value of Self-Care; Res. 2020-06 Equity Plan for Affordable Healthcare; Res. 2020-03 Declaring Institutional Racism a Public Health Crisis; and 2012-10 Resolution on Mental Health and Addiction Service; among others, provide starting points for states to build the networks needed to better treat Hispanic mental health.

This also involves legislating for specific policies that directly impact the well-being of Latino youth and their families, such as H.B. 5001, co-sponsored by Rep. Geraldo Reyes (CT) and other NHCSL members in the Connecticut Legislature, which was signed into law by Gov. Lamont in 2022. This legislation addresses the urgent needs of the state’s children’s mental and behavioral health system. In response to the exacerbated youth mental health crisis, particularly highlighted by the pandemic’s impact, the bill targets increased rates of depression, suicide, and self-harm among adolescents.

By investing in prevention, early intervention, and community-based support services, we can ensure that all Hispanics have the opportunity to thrive emotionally, mentally, and socially.