Latina immigrant mothers' mental health status

Applied Survey Research (ASR) worked with First 5 Santa Cruz County to create a Family Survey that investigated 300 Latina mothers about their quality of life, mental health, and family and community support. Survey findings revealed that approximately one third of respondents are experiencing mental health symptoms. ASR conducted a telephone survey with families in Santa Cruz County who receive services through First 5 programs. The study represents an overwhelming majority of immigrant Latinas who have lived in the United States for less than 10 years, live below the federal poverty level, and have an average of 2.6 children living with them. Preliminary data showed: 35% of respondents felt so sad that nothing could cheer them up; 40% felt that everything was an effort; 24% felt hopeless; 27% felt restless or fidgety; 33% felt nervous; 30% felt they were “rarely” or “never” able to turn to friends or family for emotional or personal help; one third felt that they were “rarely” or “never” able to turn to friends or family members for parenting support; and 55% “never” used community agencies or programs to help with parenting challenges. ASR is working with First 5 and partners to use this assessment as a springboard to action. As a result, First 5 is working to bring forth mental health resources, and parenting workshops for immigrant families in Santa Cruz County.