Study Status
Ongoing
Project Team
Principal Investigators: Anahí Collado, PhD; Antonella Onofrietti Magrassi, PhD
Research Team Members: Desi Bauer, MPH; Gracia Deras; Diego Vidaurre
Community Partners: La Clínica del Pueblo
Alignment with Crown Institute Vision
This study supports Spanish‑speaking Latino/a/e individuals with chronic disease by co‑developing a culturally responsive, peer‑led program focused on emotional well‑being and chronic disease management. Findings inform equitable, community‑driven approaches that can benefit families and broader underserved communities.
Background & Context
Spanish-speaking Latino/a/e individuals experience a high burden of untreated mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and chronic stress, yet receive fewer services due to structural inequities. They also face elevated rates of physical health conditions—including cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic disease—driven by both biological and social determinants. Rural Latino/a/e communities navigate additional barriers including stigma, limited Spanish-speaking providers, poverty, and discrimination. Despite this need, there remains a lack of culturally grounded integrated behavioral health interventions tailored specifically to this population.
Primary Aims
The study will:
Co-develop and evaluate a culturally responsive peer-led mental health and lifestyle intervention.
Examine trainingfeasibility for peer mentors with lived experience. Assess whether the program is acceptable, engaging, and culturally resonant.
Evaluate reductions in depression, anxiety, and stress.
Explore improvements in activity levels, self-efficacy, and chronic disease management.
Research Methods
The project uses a community-based participatory research (CBPR) design. Year 1 included focus groups with patients and providers to guide co-design. Year 2 involves peer mentor training and pilot testing with 40 participants. Year 3 will scale program implementation to 100 participants. Data include qualitative feedback, pre/post measures on mental and physical health, and continuous adaptation using community insights.
Key Findings & Publications /
Presentations
Data collection and analysis phase. Preliminary data revealed definitions of good mental health (emotional balance, resilience), identified stress, depression, and anxiety as central challenges, and highlighted barriers such as stigma, economic pressure, and lack of Spanish-speaking providers. Participants emphasized the importance of peer support, shared experience, and culturally relevant training.
Contact to Learn More
References
Hispanic/Latinx. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Accessed August 13, 2025. https://www.nami.org/your-journey/identity-and-cultural-dimensions/hispanic-latinx/
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