The pandemic has been stressful for everyone. The loss of loved ones, social isolation and stress have taken a mental health toll. But mental health is a topic that’s often avoided.
In the Latinx culture, many say there are stigmas and taboos that keep issues like depression, substance abuse and domestic violence in the shadows. Now, some members of the Latinx community in San Diego say that silence hurts the community and they are eager to start a conversation about treatment and prevention of mental health issues.
KPBS North County reporter Tania Thorne moderated a KPBS panel Thursday on the challenges of addressing mental health issues in Latinx culture.
Her guests were:
- Lizeth Ma is a marriage and family therapist and director of programs at Operation Hope North County, a shelter for families and women experiencing homelessness. She also trains people on the PIER model, an early intervention program for young people at risk for a severe mental illness.
- Luis Canseco is a domestic violence education and prevention specialist at the Community Resource Center in Encinitas. He works with young boys and men teaching them about how to embrace a healthy masculinity.
- Roy Inzunza, who has navigated the mental health system personally and now offers short term emotional/spiritual help to corporate employees. He has a masters degree in applied ministries, which is pastoral care and counseling.
The panelists answered questions from the community, including questions about barriers to getting mental health treatment within the Latinx community, when to seek treatment and available resources. Listen to the conversation here:
Hotlines to call for support and resources:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255
- San Diego Mental Health Access & Crisis Line: 888-724-7240
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY: 1-800-787-3224
Other Community Resources:
- Community Resource Center provides domestic violence resources and individual and family counseling.
- Family Health Centers of San Diego provides health care and support services for people who are uninsured or low income.
- La Maestra Clinics offers mental health counseling and substance abuse treatment.
- The National Alliance on Mental Illness San Diego provides mental health education and support. Help line: (800) 523-5933 or (619) 543-1434
- South Bay Community Services provides domestic violence and mental health counseling.
