Breaking the Silence: Hispanic Mental Health and the Power of Therapy

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich cultural diversity and contributions of Hispanic and Latino/Latina communities in the United States. It's also an opportunity to shed light on important issues within these communities, including mental health. For many Hispanic individuals, therapy and counseling have often been seen as resources exclusively for those facing severe mental health issues, or even stigmatized as something only "locos" (crazy people) seek.

However, this view couldn't be farther from the truth. Just like in Disney's "Encanto," where the family didn't talk about Bruno until they had to, many Hispanic families avoid discussing feelings and emotions until they can no longer be ignored. It's essential to recognize that emotional well-being is a vital aspect of overall health, just as important as having food, water, shelter, and clothing.

For many Hispanic immigrants and refugees, the focus has always been on basic survival. In the hierarchy of needs proposed by psychologist Abraham Maslow, higher-level needs like emotional and psychological well-being often take a backseat when the struggle for basic necessities is ongoing. This survival mentality can lead to the suppression of feelings, a lack of emotional expression, and a reluctance to seek help when needed.

As a Hispanic licensed professional counselor, I've witnessed this firsthand, both professionally and personally. They often come to therapy burdened with feelings of embarrassment and shame, fearing that seeking help will result in them being cast off from their families. The misconception that therapy is only for "crazy" people is a significant barrier that prevents many from seeking the support they need.

However, therapy is not about labeling or stigmatizing individuals; it's about providing a safe and judgment-free space for people to be their authentic selves. Therapy allows individuals to express their thoughts and emotions openly without the fear of judgment or reproach from family members or friends. It's a place where healing can begin.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, it's essential to advocate for the importance of Hispanic mental health. We can break the stigma, overcome the taboo, and heal as individuals and communities. By openly discussing mental health and encouraging seeking help when needed, we can build a stronger, more resilient Hispanic community.

It's time to acknowledge that our troubles don't disappear by sweeping them under the rug or ignoring them. They may linger, affecting our overall well-being and the well-being of our families. Seeking help through therapy is a brave and essential step toward addressing these issues, fostering emotional well-being, and ensuring a healthier, happier future.

Let's use this month as an opportunity to start conversations about mental health within our Hispanic and Latino/Latina communities. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter and more mentally healthy future.

With you,

Arlene Bonilla