Posted inOpinion

COMMENTARY: Latinos, let’s talk about our mental health

18.4% of Latinos struggled with mental health in 2020, but only 35% received treatment compared to the nearly half of white persons who received treatment. Culturally, seeking mental health services still carries a stigma within the Latinx community. Fears of reporting immigration status, being labeled as “loco,” and speaking about personal issues with a stranger contribute to this stigma.

Posted inHealth

Mami & Me: Gallbladder removal through Laparoscopic surgery

Last month, I went to Kern Medical Hospital to have my gallbladder removed, as I had been diagnosed with gallstones and was suffering from gallbladder attacks. My anxiety was through the roof that morning. I woke up three times before my alarm. Although I am not a religious person, I have learned that in situations like this, you must have some hope. As a result, I began praying that I would make it out of surgery alive and be reunited with my family afterward. It worked.

Posted inUncategorized

As personal medical debt in Los Angeles County tops $2.6 Billion, Latinos and Blacks most harmed

About 810,000, or 1 in 10, Los Angeles County adults together owe more than $2.6 billion in medical debt as of 2021, a new analysis has found — a staggering sum that suggests extending health coverage to more people doesn’t necessarily protect them from burdensome debt. medical debt disproportionately affects the uninsured and underinsured, low-income residents, and Black and Latino populations. It said the consequences are alarming, noting that debt negatively impacts factors that determine future health outcomes, such as housing, employment, food security, and access to prescriptions and health care.

Posted inHealth

CHARLENE DIMAS-PEINADO, CEO of Wellnest, advocates for mental health

While Mental Health Awareness Month was observed last month in May, the issue is often front-and-center for many Latinos and family members who support them in their mental health journey to recovery. 

Charlene Dimas-Peinado, is the President and CEO of Wellnest, a $32 million nationally recognized trauma informed behavioral health and housing organization in Los Angeles. She is the first Latina President & CEO of Wellnest since its founding in 1924.

Posted inHealth

The Public Health Department helping communities affected by COVID-19

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) recognizes the vital work of its partner organizations, such as the East LA Women’s Center (ELAWC), which supports Latina women, mothers and girls in underserved and vulnerable communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. At the ELAWC, people can be seen by a therapist or a case manager so that they can access their needs individually.

Posted inHealth

The nation’s Health Secretary has this Latina doctor on call

Reyes, a Harvard-trained physician who specializes in high-risk pregnancies, got into medicine to help women obtain health care, especially underserved or marginalized people who face systemic racism. She’s seen progress, albeit slow, over three decades, yet the number of maternal deaths each year continues to rise. She is s married to Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, who is championing the administration’s initiative to require all states to provide Medicaid coverage to mothers for a year after giving birth.

Posted inHealth

Mami & Me: How I survived by baby’s first common cold without a doctor’s visit

My own research taught me that the common cold is nearly impossible to avoid. Normally, it’s caused by the rhinovirus and comes with mild symptoms, such as a runny nose, a slight cough and sometimes a fever, according to Children’s Hospital, Los Angeles. 

Levi’s symptoms included congestion, a runny nose and a fever. From experience and conversations with our pediatrician, we learned that it’s OK to give our toddler Tylenol and Children’s Motrin when a fever is present. Fever and congestion can make their little head hurt.