Abstract
The Latinx population has continuously experienced a government and public opinion focused on reducing immigration. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the situation by significantly slowing immigration to the United States and global travel. This research aims to assess the progress made in human services to address the barriers to mental health treatment encountered by newly arrived Latinx immigrant families from non-traditional Latinx subgroups. Specifically this study assesses the barriers faced by Colombians, Venezuelans, and Argentinians, among others, when seeking or utilizing mental health services for themselves and their children. Semi-structured virtual interviews were virtually conducted with 35 Latinx caregivers between August and December 2020. Two key themes emerged from the data: (a) immigration status and language as primary barriers to accessing mental health care, and (b) availability of and reasons for utilizing mental health care services. Although Latinx immigrant caregivers encounter obstacles in accessing mental health services, they are willing to seek them out, particularly when their children require assistance. Future studies should address the barriers faced by recently arrived Latinx immigrant caregivers when accessing mental health services.
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Pérez-Flores, N.J., Costas-Rodriguez, B. & Pineros-Leano, M. Navigating Mental Health Services: Perspectives of Latinx Immigrant Caregivers. Clin Soc Work J (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-023-00891-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-023-00891-1