| There is well documented evidence that Latinos experience mental health treatment disadvantages. This disparity is related to numerous factors, such as the poorer antidepressant adherence that has been reported among Latinos. Relevant issues in antidepressant adherence include cultural factors (e.g., family values, religion) and individual variables, such as personal concerns about medications and the pressures from their social environment. Adherence can also be influenced by issues related to the mental health disparity (e.g., perceived benefit of treatment, relationship with practitioner). The significance of poor adherence is related to its potential to complicate the treatment of depression and result in poorer treatment outcome. This study examined the medication views, concerns, and experiences expressed by Latino outpatients receiving antidepressants. This analysis was part of an overarching study intended to design an intervention to improve adherence to antidepressant medications. We were also interested in learning about potential ways in which Latino social and cultural contexts influenced adherence. We completed six focus groups with Latino participants receiving outpatient antidepressant treatment (n = 30). Discussions concentrated on their self-perceived cultural values and experience with antidepressant medications. Qualitative data analyses were used based on a grounded theory approach. Also, analyses were conducted using a qualitative analysis software program (i.e., Atlas.ti). Participants described the role of their cultural, family, and social environments on their adherence. Participants also discussed their common concerns about antidepressants and the strategies they have used to address those concerns. Latino outpatients receiving antidepressants experience multiple factors that influence their antidepressant adherence. These factors include their own experiences with their medication, cultural influences, attitudes towards treatment, acceptance of treatment and various relationships among these factors. |
