What is Belonging

Mental health does not discriminate against race, color, gender, or religion. Unfortunately, anyone can experience symptoms of mental distress or illness at some point of their lives. The National Alliance of Mental Illness acknowledged that there exists a stigma among Latinos associated with mental health issues. They are ashamed to be seen as loco/crazy or débil/weak. Through the process of collecting data for my study, several participants shared that they have suffered from severe stress in the process of achieving tenure or securing a full-time position in their journey in academe. The symptoms of stress (emotional tension), depression (despondency and dejection), and ultimately, burnout (emotional, physical, and mental fatigue from prolonged stress) have, in many cases, caused setbacks in careers or health issues. This chapter will present the characteristics of stress, depression, and burnout, which are some of the socio-emotional symptoms of mental health problems. The purpose will be to create awareness about them and to point out the importance of seeking help if a person experiences any of these symptoms, especially Latinas in higher education institutions.