Deconstructing Cultural Aspects of Mental Health Care in Hispanic/Latinx People.

Abstract

In the United States, 18.9% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latin. The culture of these communities is as diverse, heterogenous, and rich as the history of this population. Culture shapes the perception of symptoms and psychiatric disorders. To provide culturally sensitive care, it is relevant to understand the history of these communities in the US, recognize cultural humility, and acknowledge aspects and values (eg, culturally bound syndromes, familism, paternalism, stigma of mental illness, machismo, immigration) inherent to the cultural experience and unique barriers to care. Incorporating these aspects into clinical practice is essential for positive outcomes. The purpose of this article is to give a brief historical context, encourage cultural humility, and describe cultural aspects that are essential when providing culturally sensitive care to the Hispanic and Latinx community in the US.