Author : Pamela May Recto
Publisher :
ISBN 13 :
Total Pages : 450 pages
Book Rating : 4.:/5 (124 download)
Book Synopsis Mental Health Literacy of Mexican-American Adolescents by : Pamela May Recto
Download or read book Mental Health Literacy of Mexican-American Adolescents written by Pamela May Recto and published by . This book was released on 2018 with total page 450 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The purpose of this dissertation was to examine the mental health literacy of Mexican-American adolescents concerning perinatal depression. The final project is a qualitative descriptive study via deductive and inductive content analysis. Categories and subcategories are presented using the mental health literacy framework. Participants were recruited from urban high schools in Southwestern United States. Twenty pregnant and postpartum (perinatal) Mexican-American adolescents between the ages of 15 and 19 years participated in this study. Interpersonal conflict was the most common cause of depressive symptoms as adolescents described strained relationships with the father of the baby and family members. Emotional and instrumental support were most important to adolescents in alleviating stress and depression. Family members and their significant other were individuals that adolescents turned to for support. Family members, the internet, health providers, and mothers who had previously experienced perinatal depression were mentioned as sources of mental health information. However, those who indicated internet sources were unable to explain how information would be verified for accuracy. Although participants were able to identify symptoms of depression, many expressed difficulties in recognizing depressive symptoms. Recognition was facilitated through self-appraisals and appraisal of others. Adolescents who experienced criticism due to their pregnancy status were apprehensive about discussing depressive symptoms as many feared it would lead to more criticism and judgement. Cultural beliefs surrounding motherhood influenced perceptions about depression. Participants often ignored or minimized their symptoms as mothers were often regarded as strong, resilient figures within the family unit. In regards to perceptions about health professionals and treatment, results were somewhat mixed. Adolescents were ambivalent or unfamiliar with treatments and some believed pharmacologic treatments were not beneficial. Participants overwhelmingly expressed that empathy and warmth facilitated professional help-seeking. Health care providers were seen as knowledgeable, but it was important for adolescents to first establish rapport before disclosing their mental health concerns. Utilization of the mental health literacy framework provided a comprehensive description of Mexican-American adolescents’ perceptions about perinatal depression. Consideration of sociocultural environment, values, and beliefs are indicated during interactions with and development of interventions for perinatal Mexican-American adolescents