Although many college students are comfortable seeking counseling services when they are distressed, Latina/o students and those from other ethnic and racial minority groups are often hesitant to seek counseling services.
Research has shown that it’s not that Latina/os have negative attitudes toward mental health treatment. Instead, since many Latina/o individuals value the importance of family and religion, they are more likely to seek help from their immediate family or church than to seek out professional help from their college counseling center. Additionally, barriers such as language and cost may prevent Latina/o students from seeking help.
Student Counseling Services counselors value cultural competence and are able to empathize with the needs and unique challenges specific to Latina/o students on campus.
As an Illinois State student, however, professional mental health counseling is free, eliminating the financial burden many students, including Latina/o students, face. Also, although talking to family can be helpful at times, there may be instances when speaking to a trained professional can be more effective when addressing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other diagnosable mental health issues.
Student Counseling Services (SCS) counselors value cultural competence and are able to empathize with the needs and unique challenges specific to Latina/o students on campus, particularly how the current political climate and immigration threats, racial discrimination, language differences, cultural norms, and undocumented student status may impact Latina/o individuals.
In addition to individual counseling, SCS also offers a Students of Color Group, which provides a safe and supportive space for students of color to make sense of and give voice to the wide range of feelings they experience.
If you are interested in learning more about our services and would like to make an appointment, please stop by Student Counseling Services on the third floor of the Student Services Building, Room 320, or call us at (309) 438-3655.
