The Hispanic/Latinx community represents some of the fastest growing demographics in our state, growing 40% between 2010 and 2020. It is a dynamic and diverse population, coming from many different ethnic origins and heritages, with the greatest number being of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Salvadoran, Cuban, and Guatemalan lineage.
As with all others in our nation, mental health concerns are widespread within the Latinx community, especially within the segment born in the United States. Over 16% of Hispanics have reported mental health challenges in the last year. 6% of Latinx youth have a serious mental illness, with over 15% experiencing bouts of serious depression. Unfortunately, Latinx persons with mental illness are less likely than others to receive mental health treatment in a given year.
Members of the Latinx community face similar barriers as non-Hispanic persons of color: a higher rate of underinsurance, lower average income, and a lack of access to culturally competent treatment, among others. But Latinx community members also experience barriers unique to their community (language barriers, societal assumptions about legal status, and differing levels of acculturation).
NAMI North Carolina believes that all who reside within North Carolina deserve equal access to excellent, affordable, and culturally competent mental health care. We are committed to increasing our service to the Latinx community in ways that are helpful, respecting the history and self-determination of each person.
