“The Problem Will Pass:” Attitudes of Latinx Adults Toward Mental Illness and Help Seeking

Allison Crowe, Paige Averett, Janee ’ R. Avent Harris, Loni Crumb, Syntia Santos Dietz

Abstract

Globally, mental illness is still stigmatized by many. The following qualitative study explored beliefs about mental illness and help-seeking among Latinx participants in the United States. Themes included mental illness suggesting inferiority and weakness, mental illness stereotypes such as crazy and dangerous, and mental illness does not exist and/or should be ignored. Implications include the importance of culturally competent clinicians being particularly warm and caring. Counselors should also consider using psychoeducation and anti-stigma efforts and interventions when practicing within the Latinx community.