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Remedios: Coping with Mental Distress among Mexican Americans in the Rio Grande Valley

The Latino population continues to increase, with estimates of 60 million living in the United States. Of the Hispanic population, 19% live in poverty. This may be a problem because according to research, living in poverty affects people’s social networks and self-worth negatively and is strongly associated with psychological issues. This study examined the perceptions of practitioners of mental health treatment of Mexican Americans who were experiencing mental distress and were residing in the U.S.- Mexico border. Findings suggest clients self-diagnose and try medications (usually purchased in Mexico) that were recommended to them by family members and/or social networks. Additionally, the family and social network behave like their own health/mental health care network, a manifestation of the Mexican American value that one should take care of one’s own. Loved ones provide these suggestions or consejos to help those struggling with mental stress manage their mental health. Professional mental health care is usually the last resort, which clients consider only after other options have been exhausted. This study reveals a need to explore the so-called family and social network health care system within this culture.