Mental Health: Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore and When It’s Time to Seek Help
Mental health conditions affect millions of people across the United States every year.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 59.3 million adults experienced a mental illness in 2022.
This represents 23.1% of the U.S. adult population.
However, within the Hispanic community, thousands of people still do not receive timely treatment because of stigma, misinformation, and fear of being judged.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that stigma remains one of the greatest barriers preventing people from seeking mental health care.
As a result, many delay diagnosis and access to treatment that could significantly improve their quality of life.
This reality inspired My Health Fair to speak with Dr. María Ferreras, PhD, LMHC, CEO and Founder of Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center.
Dr. Ferreras is one of the most experienced Hispanic mental health professionals in Massachusetts.
During the interview, she shared valuable insights on diagnosis, early warning signs, access to treatment, and the challenges that continue to affect the Hispanic community.
The interview was conducted during El Koro, a radio program broadcast on La Mega in Lawrence, as part of My Health Fair’s mission to provide the Hispanic community with reliable health information and trusted resources.
“Mental illness is a medical condition like any other.”
According to Dr. Ferreras, one of the greatest challenges is changing the way families talk about mental health.
“Mental illness is a medical condition like any other. Just as someone can be diagnosed with diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease, your mind is also part of your body.”
She explained that many people still believe that seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist is something to be ashamed of.
In reality, mental health disorders are treatable medical conditions that require professional care, just like any other illness.
Stigma Begins in Childhood
During the interview, Dr. Ferreras shared the story of a 12-year-old child who refused to accept an Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis.
“Even children say, ‘I don’t have that. I’m not crazy.'”
According to Dr. Ferreras, comments like these demonstrate how stigma continues to be passed from one generation to the next.
“As parents, sometimes without realizing it, we label our children and take away their opportunity to receive help early.”
Mental Health Is Also Physical Health
One of the interview’s most important messages was that mental health directly affects overall well-being.
“The problem with mental illness is that it changes the way you think and behave.”
When mental health conditions go untreated, the consequences extend beyond emotional well-being and can affect family relationships, work, and social life.
Dr. Ferreras emphasized that untreated mental illness also increases the risk of developing physical health conditions.
She explained that anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders can negatively affect sleep, nutrition, and the immune system, while also increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Recognizing the Warning Signs Can Make a Difference
Although only a qualified professional can diagnose a mental health condition, certain behavioral changes should not be ignored when they persist over time.
Some warning signs include:
- Persistent sadness
- Social withdrawal
- Significant changes in sleep or appetite
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Frequent irritability
- Lack of energy
- Neglecting personal hygiene
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Dr. Ferreras noted that family members are often the first to notice these behavioral changes.
Asking for Help Is a Sign of Strength
For many Hispanic families, accepting that there is an emotional or mental health concern remains one of the most difficult steps.
“The first step is accepting that you need help.”
She also pointed out that many people try to cope through alcohol or substance use when what they truly need is a professional evaluation.
“We all go through difficult moments, but when those problems begin to affect the way we think, feel, or behave, it is time to seek help.”
Massachusetts Offers Mental Health Resources That Many People Don’t Know About
One of the interview’s most valuable takeaways was practical information about accessing care.
Dr. Ferreras explained that many Massachusetts residents can access mental health services without first obtaining a referral from their primary care physician, depending on their health insurance coverage.
She also reminded viewers that all mental health information is protected under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
This means patients can seek care knowing that their privacy will be protected.
Breaking the Silence Can Save Lives
Dr. Ferreras believes education remains the most effective tool for reducing stigma.
“Let’s stop labeling children simply because their behavior has been affected by a mental health condition.”
She concluded with a message of hope:
“Every mental health condition can be treated. There is help, and there is hope.”
Mental Health Resources in Massachusetts
Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center – MyHealthFair.com
Services: Psychological evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy, and mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults in both English and Spanish.
Address:
439 South Union Street, Suite 104
Lawrence, MA 01843
Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL)
The state’s free behavioral health helpline connects residents with mental health and substance use treatment services 24 hours a day.
Phone: 833-773-2445
Available 24/7.
Services offered in more than 200 languages.
No health insurance required.
Mass211
Provides free referrals to mental health services, food assistance, housing, transportation, and other community resources.
Dial 211.Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHC)
Massachusetts offers Community Behavioral Health Centers that provide immediate mental health evaluations, therapy, and crisis services.
Many locations accept walk-in visits without an appointment.
Emergency Services Program (ESP)
Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis can receive immediate assistance 24 hours a day.
Call 833-773-2445 or 911 in an emergency.
Visit the Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center digital booth on MyHealthFair.com, where you’ll find educational materials, Spanish-language resources, and information about services available to support the community’s mental health throughout the year.
