A Qualitative Analysis of Latina Migrant Farmworkers’ Perception of Mental Health: Voices From Wisconsin

Abstract

Introduction: Despite evidence showing Latinos’ high prevalence of mental health, little is known about Latina migrant farmworkers’ mental health experiences, especially those working in Midwestern states. Considering the multiple vulnerabilities observed among Latina migrant farmworkers, it is necessary to gain insight from own accounts and perceptions of mental health and mental health–seeking experiences Method: A qualitative descriptive approach, using in-depth semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions, served to retrieve data from 34 Latina migrant farmworkers. This study was informed by Chicana, postcolonial, and Black feminist epistemologies. Results: Thematic analysis identified themes within the data. These findings pertained to the conceptualization of mental health within the contexts of family, capacities, stigma, denial, and faith. Discussion: Our results demonstrate the need for health care providers to consider Latina migrant farmworkers’ perceptions about mental health and apply those in designing and implementing culturally informed policy and practice.