Every October, our nation observes National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month. Greater Family Health is committed to raising awareness about depression and other mental health conditions, while emphasizing the importance of mental health screenings.
At Greater Family Health, we normalize depression screenings by incorporating them into routine medical checkups. This approach allows us to identify depression issues early and integrate mental health care into overall health, rather than treating it as a separate and stigmatized concern. Early screenings not only help us pinpoint potential issues but also provide access to resources that can lead to effective treatment.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), mental health stigma is a significant challenge within the Hispanic/Latino community, often fueled by cultural, social, and economic factors. Many individuals in the communities we serve encounter barriers to seeking mental health care, such as fear of judgment, deeply ingrained beliefs, and limited access to resources. The consequences of this stigma can be serious, leading to:
Delayed Treatment
Fear of embarrassment or judgment can prevent individuals from seeking help, resulting in worsened mental health conditions and increased difficulty in managing symptoms.
Social Isolation
Stigma can alienate individuals from their communities and support networks.
Internalized Shame and Guilt
Internalizing stigma can foster feelings of shame and guilt, further hindering seeking out help.
At Greater Family Health, we recognize that mental health is an integral part of overall health. We provide high-quality care to all, regardless of their ability to pay. Our goal as we celebrate National Depression and Mental Health Screening month is to reduce barriers to mental health care by incorporating depression screenings and referral services into regular doctor visits. This approach allows Hispanic individuals, as well as all our patients, to receive care in a familiar and less stigmatizing environment. Beyond your routine medical checkup, we offer affordable mental health services through both in-person and telehealth visits, further breaking down the barriers of stigma, access and availability.
Whether you are an established patient or visiting Greater Family Health for the first time, our staff and providers create a safe and welcoming space for open conversations about mental health. We aim to reduce the fear and stigma surrounding mental health conditions. If your preferred language is not English, please inform our staff when scheduling your appointment; we can arrange for an interpreter to assist you during your visit.
Ultimately, addressing mental health stigma is not just about improving individual well-being; it’s about strengthening our communities and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
