Latine immigrant youths’ attitudes toward mental health and mental health services and the role of culturally-responsive programming

Latine immigrant youth, in general, report logistical barriers that contribute to utilizing fewer healthcare services and not knowing how to navigate the healthcare system. In addition to underutilizing healthcare services, Latine immigrant youth also report higher levels of negative attitudes toward mental health when compared to non-Latine immigrant youth. However, little is still known regarding factors that impact these attitudes toward Latine immigrant youth, as well as the community support efforts that are available to this specific group. Using a semi-structured interview with 12 Latine immigrant youth, this study explored (1) the attitudes towards mental health, (2) attitudes towards mental health services, (3) and the experiences of participating in a local community-based program for Latine immigrant youth. Results found that most participants held positive attitudes toward mental health, and all participants described positive attitudes toward mental health services. In addition, all participants reported having positive experiences with a culturally sensitive youth program that promotes psychological well-being while integrating into the United States. They noted that it had benefited them socially, culturally, and psychologically. Given the rise of Latine immigrant youth in the U.S. and the stigma surrounding mental health attitudes, it is crucial to continue to explore this area to serve Latine immigrant youth better and connect them to the mental health services they may need. Also, it is important to have community programs, such as this one, that support and meet Latine immigrant youth’s needs.