Healthy changes are happening in neighborhoods across San Mateo County, and more can be done to improve the health of all residents. Many Latinos experience stress resulting from poor housing, abuse, trauma, stigma, discrimination, assimilation, and acculturation issues. These life stressors can lead to mental health conditions, substance use disorders, as well as obesity and other chronic diseases. Nearly one-third of Latinos in California are classified as obese and less than one in 11 Latinos who suffer from mental health problems get professional help.

To support Latino families in taking charge of their physical and emotional health, the San Mateo County Latino Collaborative is hosting the 4th Annual Latino Health Forum, “¡Sana, Sana! “Colita de Rana! Cuidate Hoy Para Un Mejor Mañana” or “Take Care of Yourself Today for a Better Tomorrow,” highlighting the event’s focus on a healthy mind, body, and soul. This event will be held Saturday, October 8, 2016 from 10:30am to 3:30pm at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, 725 Monte Diablo Ave. in San Mateo. This year’s theme is “¡Mente, Cuerpo, Alma Sana, Viva Sanamente!” which translates to “Mind, Body, and Soul, Live Healthy!”

This free event offers the Latino community an opportunity to come together and join the movement for healthy change by discovering important and fun ways to be emotionally and physically healthy. It helps people understand that small changes, such as walking, filling half your plate with fruits and vegetables, or talking to someone when feeling distressed can make a significant difference in their physical and mental health.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about mental and physical wellness. There will be two presentations where panelists will share personal experiences related to substance use, mental health, and suicide prevention. Attendees will learn how to identify warning signs and resources they can access to seek help for themselves and their loved ones. A nutritionist will also share tips for healthy cooking and eating and how to read nutrition labels.

Over 35 resource tables will be available for attendees to learn about different services and opportunities in San Mateo County, including information on health insurance coverage. Resources will be available in English and Spanish. 

Activities for all ages, such as raffles, Zumba, and children’s activities will be available. The event will be catered by La Hacienda Market.

• Presentations will be in Spanish with English translation. Speakers include: Keynote Speaker: Celia Moreno, MD, Former Medical Director, San Mateo County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services
• Speaker: Jei Africa, Director of Office of Diversity and Equity, San Mateo County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services

San Mateo County Latino Collaborative representative Hector Moncada, LCSW, will be available for interviews. For more information, visit smchealth.org/sanasana