Weekly article based on the interview with Dr. María Ferreras (Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center, Lawrence, MA) on El Koro del Morenaje on La Mega 95.1, aired on July 9, 2026.

How many times have we heard—or even said—things like, “That’s for crazy people,” “You’ll get over it,” or “If I ask for help, what will people think?” Those statements have a name: stigma.

According to psychologist Dr. María Ferreras, director of Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center in Lawrence, Massachusetts, stigma is the number one barrier that keeps Hispanic communities from seeking mental health care when they need it most.

Her message was clear from the very beginning:

“You can have everything, but if your mental health is missing, you won’t be able to do anything with everything you have.”

At My Health Fair, we highlight the most important takeaways from that conversation, along with Massachusetts resources to make taking the first step easier.

What Is Stigma, and Why Does It Hurt Us So Much?

Dr. Ferreras explains it simply: stigma consists of negative beliefs and stereotypes about mental health.

These are misconceptions passed from one generation to the next: if someone goes to therapy, they’re “crazy”; if a young person has depression, they’re “lazy”; if someone lives with anxiety, they’re “making it up.”

She compares it to being afraid of turbulence on an airplane. A passenger may believe the plane is about to crash, while the pilot—who understands how airplanes work—knows that’s not true.

Mental health works the same way. We often fear and judge something we don’t fully understand, and that fear prevents us from seeking help.

The most serious consequence is that stigma causes us to delay treatment.

Dr. Ferreras shared an example everyone can understand: when we need a place to live, we do everything possible to find housing because we know that without it, we could end up homeless.

But we don’t treat mental health with that same urgency.

“People don’t realize that seeking mental health care is just as necessary as finding a home or putting food on the table.”

She warned that untreated depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder eventually affects three major areas of life: our personal and family relationships, our work, and our connection with the people around us. In the end, untreated mental illness can put at risk the very apartment, food, and job we’ve worked so hard to obtain.

When One Family Member Suffers, the Whole Family Suffers

What happens when the person who needs help is your father, mother, child, or grandparent?

Dr. Ferreras used a familiar image:

“It’s like having a basket of oranges. If one is rotten and you leave it there long enough, the others will eventually start to rot too.”

Living with someone experiencing untreated depression, constant anger, or manic episodes affects everyone in the household.

The COVID-19 pandemic made this especially clear. As families spent more time together, many discovered mental health challenges that had gone unnoticed for years.

That’s why, Dr. Ferreras says, encouraging a loved one to seek help isn’t exposing them—it’s loving them.

“Helping someone find treatment is an act of love. Loving someone also means caring for them during their time of need, whatever the reason may be.”

She also shared a hopeful observation:

“When one person walks into our clinic, it often represents an entire family.”

A mother who begins therapy may later bring her spouse or children because she learns to recognize signs at home that previously went unnoticed.

The Three Biggest Barriers Facing Hispanic Communities

When asked about the most common obstacles to accessing mental health care, Dr. Ferreras identified three:

1. Stigma

“Believing that if I seek help, it means I’m crazy. Until that belief changes, this barrier will remain.”

According to Dr. Ferreras, stigma is the biggest obstacle of all.

2. Language

There simply aren’t enough Spanish-speaking mental health professionals.

Mental health care, she explained, should be provided in the patient’s own language so they can fully express themselves and understand their treatment.

Many people remain on waiting lists because they need a Spanish-speaking therapist.

A provider who understands Hispanic culture also understands expressions like “I had a nervous spell” or “I had an anxiety attack,” as well as cultural norms, such as adult children living with their parents, without automatically viewing them as problems.

3. Access to Health Insurance

Some people don’t have health insurance, while others have plans that don’t cover mental health providers or services.

Even so, Dr. Ferreras emphasized that there are solutions.

Community clinics like hers offer sliding-scale fees based on income and provide care regardless of immigration status.

If you have MassHealth, mental health services are covered. If you’ve lost your coverage, you may be able to renew it or explore other insurance options through the Massachusetts Health Connector.

How Do I Know If I Need Help?

Everyone has difficult days.

The difference, Dr. Ferreras explained, is how long those feelings last.

Ask yourself:

“Have I been feeling this way for a long time?”

If getting out of bed becomes difficult week after week, if someone who was once organized stops caring for their home or personal hygiene, or if sadness and irritability become the norm rather than the exception, it’s no longer “just a bad day.”

“If it’s something that keeps happening, then it’s time to seek help because there’s a problem that should be evaluated by a professional.”

She also reminded listeners that mental health struggles eventually become visible.

“Mental health reveals itself through your behavior. It’s better to recognize it yourself before someone else does.”

No One Has to Know: Confidential Care Is Available From Home

For those who fear being judged, Dr. Ferreras highlighted one positive change that came from the pandemic: telehealth.

“You can seek help without anyone knowing. You can speak with your doctor from the comfort of your home, have your medication sent to your pharmacy, and no one has to know.”

The initial phone call to a clinic is confidential.

Paperwork can be completed electronically or by mail.

Appointments with therapists and psychiatrists can take place over the phone or through secure video visits.

Today, the first step toward better mental health can begin with a simple phone call from the privacy of your own home.

During a Mental Health Crisis, Ask for Medical Help—Not Just Police Assistance

Dr. Ferreras addressed a painful reality: some people experiencing mental health crises have lost their lives because family members, unsure of where to turn, called the police instead of medical services.

Her recommendation is clear.

If a loved one is experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911 and specifically request an ambulance for a mental health emergency, or take them directly to the nearest emergency department where they can be stabilized.

Massachusetts also offers free, confidential crisis services in Spanish available 24 hours a day to help families understand what to do and where to go.

Saving those numbers in your phone today could save a life tomorrow.

Confidential Mental Health Resources in Massachusetts

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call or text 988, then press 2 for Spanish.
Free, confidential, available 24/7.

Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line

833-773-2445

Available 24 hours a day in Spanish.
No health insurance required.
Connects callers to crisis services and treatment throughout Massachusetts.

Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHCs)

Provide in-person crisis services across Massachusetts, with or without insurance coverage.

MassHealth

Covers therapy, psychiatry, and mental health treatment.

To renew your coverage or explore insurance options:

• Massachusetts Health Connector
• MassHealth: 800-841-2900

Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center (Lawrence)

439 South Union Street, Suite 104
(The same building as the Social Security office)

Phone: 978-648-8515

• Therapy in Spanish
• Phone and video appointments
• Sliding-scale fees based on income
• Services regardless of immigration status

In an Emergency

Call 911 and specifically request an ambulance for a mental health emergency, or go directly to the nearest emergency room.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know whether I’m experiencing depression or simply going through a difficult time?

The key is duration and frequency.

If sadness, lack of energy, neglecting personal care, or irritability continue for several weeks and begin affecting your work, family life, or daily routine, it’s time to speak with a mental health professional.

Can I receive therapy in Spanish without anyone finding out?

Yes.

Many clinics across Massachusetts offer confidential therapy in Spanish by phone or video from your home.

Your appointments, records, and treatment remain confidential.

What if I don’t have health insurance or immigration documents?

You can still receive care.

Community health clinics often adjust fees according to income and provide services regardless of immigration status.

You can also call the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line at 833-773-2445 for free guidance on available options near you.

What should I do if a family member is experiencing a mental health crisis right now?

Call 988 (press 2 for Spanish) for immediate crisis support, or call 911 and specifically request an ambulance for a mental health emergency.

You may also take your loved one directly to the nearest emergency department.

More information www.myhealthfair.com

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)

https://www.masshelpline.com

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

https://mass211.org

Provides free referrals to mental health services, food assistance, housing, transportation, and other community resources.

Dial 211.Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHC)

https://www.mass.gov

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.

Sources: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Mental Illness Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Mental Health Stigma, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About Mental Health.

Every day, millions of Americans take on a role that rarely appears in labor statistics but is essential to the well-being of countless families:

Family caregiver.

These are individuals who help aging parents, spouses, children with disabilities, or relatives with chronic illnesses perform basic activities of daily living.

They also assist with medical appointments, medication management, and maintaining their loved one’s independence.

According to the Caregiving in the U.S. 2025 report by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving:

Approximately 63 million Americans currently provide unpaid care to a family member or loved one.

While this work is essential to both the healthcare system and families, experts warn that it can have significant consequences when caregivers do not receive adequate support.

Many caregivers experience:

• Chronic stress
• Burnout
• Anxiety
• Sleep problems
• Depression

That is why organizations like Careforth provide resources, guidance, and ongoing support to people who dedicate much of their time to caring for others.

In Massachusetts, Careforth actively participates in initiatives designed to strengthen the well-being of families providing long-term care, particularly in communities facing economic, social, or language barriers.

Careforth specialists note that one of the greatest challenges is that many caregivers devote all of their energy to caring for someone else while neglecting their own health.

Self-Care Is Not a Luxury

Norma Jaramillo, a Careforth professional, explains that one of the most common misconceptions is that self-care is optional.

“Taking care of yourself is not a luxury. It is a fundamental part of the caregiving process,” she says.

According to Jaramillo, maintaining physical and emotional health helps caregivers preserve the energy, patience, and resilience needed to provide long-term care.

When caregivers become exhausted, the quality of care they provide may also be affected.

Caregiver Burnout Is Becoming Increasingly Common

Experts use the term caregiver burnout to describe the physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can develop after long periods of caregiving.

The condition usually develops gradually, and many people do not recognize the symptoms until they become severe.

Common warning signs include:

• Constant fatigue
• Frequent irritability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Anxiety
• Feelings of sadness
• Social isolation
• Lack of energy for everyday activities

If you’d like to learn more about the warning signs of caregiver burnout, how to recognize them early, and strategies to prevent it, we invite you to read this Careforth article:

Signs of Caregiver Burnout And How to Recognize Them

Prioritize Rest and Personal Health

According to Jaramillo, rest is one of the first aspects of life to suffer when someone takes on caregiving responsibilities.

Interrupted sleep, ongoing worries, and emotional demands can lead to accumulated fatigue.

She recommends:

• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
• Taking short breaks whenever possible during the day
• Sharing caregiving responsibilities when possible
• Asking family members or friends for help

She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy habits.

Recommendations include:

• Eating a balanced diet
• Staying hydrated
• Exercising regularly
• Attending preventive medical checkups
• Setting aside time for enjoyable activities

Acknowledging Your Emotions Is Also Part of Self-Care

Caregivers often experience a wide range of emotions.

Feelings of frustration, guilt, sadness, and worry are common, especially as a loved one’s care needs increase over time.

Jaramillo explains that recognizing these emotions and talking about them can help prevent more serious mental health issues.

Seeking professional support, joining a caregiver support group, or simply talking with trusted friends or family members can make a meaningful difference.

Asking for Help Is Also a Form of Caring

Many caregivers feel they must shoulder every responsibility on their own.

However, experts agree that accepting help is not a sign of weakness or lack of commitment.

On the contrary, sharing responsibilities and building a support network can reduce stress and help prevent burnout.

A Public Health Priority

As the population continues to age, family caregivers are becoming increasingly important.

Many healthcare organizations believe that supporting caregivers will be one of the major public health challenges of the coming decades.

For experts like Norma Jaramillo, the message is clear:

Taking care of yourself does not mean abandoning a loved one.

It means developing the physical and emotional strength needed to continue caring for them over the long term.

Watch the full interview here.

Resources for Caregivers in Massachusetts

Careforth

Homepage

Phone: 866-797-2333

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (ET); Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (ET).

Provides caregiver support, training, guidance, and programs for family caregivers, including resources for those caring for older adults and individuals with long-term care needs.

Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE)

https://www.mass.gov

Phone: 800-243-4636

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Provides free information about services for older adults, caregivers, housing, transportation, nutrition, community support, and state programs throughout Massachusetts.

Interpreter services are available in more than 100 languages.

Family Caregiver Support Program (Massachusetts)

https://www.mass.gov

Phone: 800-243-4636 (MassOptions)

A free program that connects family caregivers with care specialists, support groups, caregiver education, personalized guidance, and respite care services.

AARP Caregiving Resources

https://www.aarp.org

Caregiver Support Line: 1-877-333-5885

Offers caregiving tools, planning guides, educational resources, and support for family members caring for loved ones.

If you would like more practical tips for preventing caregiver burnout, we invite you to watch Careforth’s full interview.

Visit the Careforth booth at MyHealthFair.com, where you’ll find resources, guidance, and tools designed to support caregivers and their families throughout the year.

Download the Caregiver Workbook

If you are caring for a family member or friend, this practical Spanish-language workbook offers valuable information, recommendations, exercises, and tools to help you organize caregiving responsibilities, reduce stress, and connect with helpful resources.

Download the Caregiver Workbook for free.