Comadres, let’s talk about mental health and our Latino culture. I know you might feel like this topic might be everywhere nowadays, but it’s with good reason.
Let’s not pretend like we didn’t grow up around family members talking about “los nervios” (instead of calling it what it was – anxiety!) and hearing tías talk about el primo que estaba “loco.”
At this point, I hope we understand that under no circumstance should anyone call someone who is struggling with their mental health “loco” or “loca.”
It’s no secret that our culture has historically stigmatized anything relating to mental health. But just like you keep your body healthy, you must keep your mind healthy. Otherwise, it will have a domino effect which in turn will affect your overall body’s health.
So, how do we approach mental health and the Latino culture?
Well, for starters, you must have an open dialogue with your family members about it, including those who say “que eso no existe.” It is now your job to cultivate a safe environment for your current generation and those after you.
Try to talk about the following topics to keep the conversation around mental health.
Listen, listen, listen
Properly listening to those opening up to you is vital. We all yearn to feel heard and validated one way or another. When you actively listen, you should be able to follow up with questions regarding their situation. Don’t make it about yourself. Give them a space where their thoughts can be voiced.
Praying it away might not work
We all know that our culture is quite conservative and religious. And, there’s nothing wrong with that. However, just like you can’t pray a headache away or any other bodily discomfort, you can’t pray away from mental health conditions. Let the experts do their work. Advising someone to go to therapy would be the better route.
Medication is not equal to drugs
Certain mental health conditions require the help of medication to help people balance themselves out. This is perfectly normal. Think of it as similar to taking daily vitamins.
Of course, if your family member is about to start medicating for the first, know that there are some initial side effects. This is also part of the process.
Be patient and encourage them to continue because, in the long run, that medication may be the reason your loved one remains safe.
The conversation around mental health is a never-ending one. If you or alguien de tu familia have more questions, always remember to reach out to someone professionally trained, such as a therapist, psychologist, counselor, or social worker.