Psychosocial stress, social inequality, and mental health in Puerto Rican women in upstate New York

As a group, stateside Puerto Rican women experience multiple social inequalities due primarily to sexism and racism. This predicament places them at risk for psychosocial stress and psychological distress. This study explored the presence of (1) psychosocial stress associated with social inequality, (2) social support, and (3) mental health symptoms in a sample of Puerto Rican women in upstate New York. The results shed light on the psychosocial realities and mental health needs of Puerto Rican women in small cities. They help inform culturally responsive program development and social and mental health policy. Descriptive data and policy recommendations are provided.