Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Latino Veterans

Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Latino Combat Veterans in Rural Areas: A Review of the Literature on Treatment-Seeking

LLatino combat veterans experience higher prevalence and severity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms compared to their non-Hispanic Caucasian counterparts. However, rural Latino veterans face unique barriers to accessing treatment, including geographical isolation from Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities, limited public transportation, and conservative views on mental health care. Despite these challenges, there is limited research on the specific sociocultural and structural factors hindering treatment-seeking among this population, especially in rural areas. This article reviews the literature to identify gaps in understanding and offer recommendations for future research and interventions.

Combat-related emotional trauma has long been associated with psychiatric disorders like PTSD. First identified during World War II as "battle fatigue," the term evolved after the Vietnam War to recognize PTSD as a distinct mental health condition. This disorder, characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, depression, and emotional numbness, has been particularly prevalent among veterans. However, the emotional toll of PTSD is often more severe in Latino veterans, whose access to mental health care is complicated by cultural, social, and linguistic barriers.

The article underscores the need for targeted interventions to address the barriers faced by rural Latino veterans. These include cultural stigmatization of mental health issues, a lack of awareness about available resources, and the physical distance from VA services. By tailoring treatment approaches to the cultural needs of this population, healthcare providers can improve access to care and better support the mental health and well-being of rural Latino veterans suffering from PTSD.

Citation:

Duke, M. R., Moore, R. S., & Ames, G. M. (2011). PTSD Treatment-Seeking Among Rural Latino Combat Veterans: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Rural Social Sciences, 26(3), 157–180. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3677857/