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Speaking Your Language

On May 22, UC Health hosted a community conversation with a unique touch. The third installment of the health information series focused on Wellbeing in the Latino Community and was held entirely in Spanish.

The event was the first of its kind for UC Health. Advised by Latino community leaders, the panel discussion took place at Robert’s Paideia Academy and focused on identifying and managing stress, resources for dealing with the impact of physical and psychological trauma, and identifying the systems of mental health issues in children.

“These topics are critical to the Latino community, and we are very grateful for UC Health’s leadership in facilitating this much-needed discussion, “said Alfonso Cornejo, President of the Cincinnati Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “This conversation truly meets the community on their own terms.”

Cornejo moderated the panel of experts, which featured UC Health psychologist Maria Espinola, Ph.D. Attendees also heard from Community partners Luz Elena Schemmel, director of immigrant and wellness services with Santa Maria Community Services and Nicole DeGreg, nurse practitioner for Robert’s Paideia Academy’s school-based health clinic. Each panelist offered perspective on the unique mental health and wellness needs of Latino children and families. They also provided insight into community resources provided by their organizations to help treat those needs.

“Many people in the Latino community have trauma they experienced in their native countries on top of trauma experienced when coming to the US.” said Dr. Espinola, “Often they come here with a lot of hope and dreams, but they often face discrimination, difficulty adapting to the culture, and even economic strain that can impact mental and physical health.”