PURPOSE
This book guides mental health providers working with Latinx communities from México, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Specifically, it presents unique and specific experiences of Mexican, Guatemalan, Salvadoran, and Honduran communities in the country of origin and the United States and their possible impact on the mental health among these communities. A focus on the intersecting role of oppression, historical trauma, oppressive policies, and current stressors (COVID-19) is explored in the context of mental health considerations. The book serves to better inform providers and clinical educators on how historical contexts can provide unique insights into the mental health experience of Latinx communities.
STATEMENT OF NEED
Latinx communities represent the largest minority group in the United States. The latest data from the US Census indicates that there are currently 60.6 million Latinxs in the US, representing 18.5% of the total US population (US Census, 2020). Latinx communities have historically been oppressed due to colonialization, modern-day oppression, and racist political agendas (both in their country of origin and the United States). Latinxs experience multiple stressors affecting their mental health and experience barriers to culturally responsive treatment.
CONTENT OF THE BOOK
The book includes a unique look at the intersection of historical contexts and mental health challenges experienced among Latinx communities from México, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. The book also provides useful resources and recommendations for mental health providers and clinical educators to better serve Latinx populations. The chapters on identified countries address specific historical events of the country, migration patterns, indigenous communities, settlement patterns in the U.S., demographics, cultural values, mental health, and substance use-related issues.
BENEFITS FOR MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIANS
