Evaluation of the Amigas Latinas Motivando el Alma (ALMA) Mental Health Intervention

Abstract

Objective: The Latina immigrant population is at increased risk for higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress than other racial/ethnic groups (8,9). However, few studies have implemented and evaluated interventions to improve the mental health disparities among Latina immigrants. Method: In this exploratory study, we randomly selected a sample of 30 participants to invite them to complete qualitative semi-structured interviews. Both intervention and control group participants were interviewed to assess participant satisfaction and acceptability with the ALMA intervention. Results: Findings suggest that Latina immigrant women from both in-person and online interventions found the program supportive and helpful in maintaining their mental health. Participants learned techniques and exercises to help them manage stress, depression, and anxiety and incorporate these into their daily lives. They also learned to connect with themselves and prioritize their mental health needs. Some differences noted by women receiving the intervention online were their ability to connect with other women in the program, and external distractions at home caused them not fully to engage during the online sessions. Conclusion: This study illustrates the potential usefulness and feasibility of a mindfulness intervention to improve mental wellbeing among Latina immigrants and other vulnerable populations that experience barriers to accessing mental health care. Future studies should assess the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on Latina immigrants during the COVID-19 pandemic.