Perceptions of Peer-Delivered Mental Health Support for Anxiety and Depression Among Spanish-Speaking, Perinatal Latinas in the United States.

Background and objectives: Spanish-speaking U.S. Latinas in the perinatal period often face barriers to mental health treatment despite high rates of depression and anxiety. Peer-led support programs may help alleviate these challenges.

Methods: This study surveyed 674 Spanish-speaking Latinas in the perinatal period to explore their perceptions of peer-led mental health support.

Results: Participants recognized benefits such as improved access, decreased isolation, and reduced stigma. Barriers included low awareness of when to seek help and confidentiality concerns. Exploratory analyses showed that having Medicaid or being uninsured was linked to favorable perceptions of peer-delivered support. Higher levels of depression and anxiety symptoms were associated with more perceived barriers to accessing this support.

Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of peer-led mental health support for Spanish-speaking Latinas during the perinatal period and informs the development of culturally responsive interventions to improve mental health care accessibility and effectiveness.