Latinos’ Conceptualization of Depression, Diabetes, and Mental Health–Related Stigma

Abstract

Depression and diabetes are two of the most common health conditions experienced by those from Latino backgrounds. However, community-based stigma toward these health conditions may discourage those experiencing symptoms of depression or diabetes from seeking professional assistance. To assess stigma in the Latino community toward these common health conditions, a community-based sample of 469 Latino participants in a major urban area in the [Southwestern United States -Houston, TX] completed a face-to-face survey using an experimental vignette methodology. Participants were asked to name the problem that the subject of the vignette was experiencing based on the symptoms described in the vignette. This survey also inquired about public stigma toward individuals experiencing symptoms of depression and/or diabetes. Results indicate that although the majority (60%) of the sample were able to correctly identify symptoms of depression, it was more difficult for them to identify symptoms of depression with co-occurring diabetes. Overall levels of public stigma toward those experiencing depression were moderate, and co-occurring symptoms of diabetes did not moderate stigma toward those experiencing depression. These findings indicate a need for intervention approaches within the Latino community to increase health literacy related to depression and type 2 diabetes, as well as an ongoing need to reduce stigma toward those experiencing symptoms of depression. Implications for future research, practice, and health promotion are discussed.

Dimensionality and psychometric properties of the Greek version of the Τype 1 Diabetes Stigma Assessment Scale (DSAS-1-Gr)

“…Stigmatization has been found to be strongly and consistently associated with negative psychological conditions, and it has been suggested that DM stigma is likely to have pervasive emotional, social, and cognitive impacts. 8,34 Also, as expected, 18,19 small negative correlations were found with the years of diabetes duration, which was evidence of the discriminant validity. In addition, the internal consistency of the scale was satisfactory, ranging from 0.80 to 0.89, and is in line with that of the original DSAS-1 18 and the Danish version ofit.…”

Pathways to mental health care: Latinos’ help-seeking preferences.

“…Moreover, professional organizations must endeavor to present positive portrayals of mental health services providers in Latino communities, and testimonials from Latino individuals who have found mental health services helpful. These steps can improve the therapeutic interaction and relationships that mental health providers have with their patients (Reynders et al, 2014; Washburn et al, 2022). The overall effect will be a reduction in mental health conditions in Latino communities, and a healthier workforce.…”

Caregiver Characteristics of Adults with Acute Traumatic Brain Injury in the United States and Latin America

“…Individuals who "complain" about fulfilling social duties sometimes are regarded as weak, unable to bear suffering with courage and pride [46]. Additionally, the expectation to sacrifice oneself for the care of loved ones (marianismo) can further impact reports of depression due to the social stigma surrounding mental health issues and help-seeking behaviors [47]. For example, familism-the importance of placing family needs before individual interests-is valued to a greater degree in Latin America than in the U.S. [24].…”