Hispanic Heritage Month highlights mental health awareness in Bowling Green

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Hispanic Heritage Month runs from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, celebrating the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans across the country and here in Bowling Green.

But beyond cultural celebrations, advocates say this month is also a time to raise awareness about mental health in the Hispanic community. According to national data, only 36% of Hispanic and Latino Americans living with a mental illness receive treatment.

Dr. Roger Rivera, a family and psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner, says that lack of awareness and stigma often keep people from getting help.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people come in undiagnosed bipolar, just for years, suffering through this condition,” Rivera said. “What happens is you start losing control… whether it’s hyper fixated speech or going off on tangents, it starts to impact the mind.”

Rivera says there are often early warning signs – like experiencing a first episode of depression before the age of 21 – that can increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder later in life.

However, bipolar disorder doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed – it also impacts families and communities. Rivera stresses the importance of making patients feel supported and understood.

“It’s imperative we pick it up as early as possible,” Rivera said. “Having trusted people around us makes a difference, even if it’s easier said than done. Too many people suffer in silence, not understanding what they’re going through.”

Rivera adds early intervention and proper treatment can reduce the severity of episodes and improve long-term quality of life.

As Bowling Green and communities across the nation celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Rivera hopes the conversation will also shine a light on the importance of mental health and access to care.