Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrating Resilience & Recognizing Our Needs
- silviatorreslmhc
- Oct 14
- 3 min read
By Johana J. Lastor Montes, LMHC
Each year, from September 15th to October 15th, the United States of America celebrates
Hispanic Heritage Month. This time not only recognizes the Hispanic-American contributions to the nation but also celebrates the growth of the nation that is influenced by the Latinx community.
While we honor many contributions, we cannot turn a blind eye and must recognize the barriers that many individuals who identify as Latinx encounter, specifically the impact on one’s mental health.
In the midst of today’s political and social climate, many families are holding more than daily stressors. Issues such as immigration, equity, and identity are no longer just topics that are seen in the news or media – it’s reality for many families across our nation. Research has shown that ongoing exposure to discrimination and heated political rhetoric can increase symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma (American Psychological Association, 2017). Even those who may not be directly affected, the conversations on social media and media coverage can still take a toll on one’s mental health.
The Numbers are Talking
● About 16% of Hispanic/Latinx adults in the U.S. experience a mental health condition
each year (SAMHSA, 2021).
● Yet, only about 35% of Hispanic/Latinx adults with mental health concerns receive
treatment, compared to over 50% of non-Hispanic white adults (NAMI, 2022).
● Cultural values such as familismo (family connectedness) and el respeto (respect) often
provide strength, but stigma, lack of bilingual providers, and cost can make it harder to
So while resilience runs deep in the Hispanic communities, real barriers to care remain.
Finding Balance & Nurturing Ourselves
So, what can we do to take care of ourselves and our mental health during stressful times? The following are some steps that can make a difference:
● Be mindful of the media – While following the news is important, constant exposure can
increase stress levels. Choose certain times to check the news outlet, and allow yourself a
break afterwards.
● Lean on your support – Our family, friends, mentors, peers, etc. can be a powerful source
of support and overall source of comfort during difficult times.
● Set boundaries – Here are some magic words that you may have heard before: it is okay
to step back if you are feeling too many feelings. Our mind and bodies are wonderful in
alerting us if we are starting to become overstimulated. Listen to it. Taking care of
yourself is not selfish, it’s healthy!
● Seek professional support – Counseling isn’t about weakness, it is about giving yourself
the space to be yourself to heal as well as learn some tools to use to cope with challenges.
Celebrating Resilience
Hispanic Heritage Month is more than history, it’s about celebrating resilience and looking
towards the future. By caring for mental health, we are not only honoring the strength of past generations but also creating a healthier path for future generations to come.
References
- American Psychological Association (APA). (2017). Stress in America: The impact of
- (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health. (2025, June
30). Hispanic/Latino Health | Of ice of Minority Health. Office of Minority Health.
Retrieved September 16, 2025, from
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2022). Hispanic/Latinx.
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- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2021). Key
substance use and mental health indicators in the United States.
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