Translating research into action: reducing disparities in mental health care for Mexican Americans
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Updated: Sep 28, 2026

A Modified Trier Social Stress Test for Vulnerable Mexican American Adolescents
Published on: July 10, 2017
Sergio A Aguilar-Gaxiola1, Lynnette Zelezny, Betty Garcia
1Department of Psychology, California State University, 5310 North Campus Drive, Fresno, CA 93740-8019, USA. sergioa@csufresno.edu
Abstract:
This article describes a case study in which epidemiologic research findings were translated for multiple stakeholders and applied to reduce disparities in mental health services for Mexican Americans in Fresno County, California. The aims of this evidence-based process were to educate the community and mobilize action, translate research for multiple stakeholders to inform practitioners and policy makers about the need for improved mental health care for minorities, and effect regional policy changes to increase and improve the availability, accessibility, and appropriateness of mental health care for Mexican Americans. Through this process, a community-driven and consumer-oriented model evolved, which resulted in the allocation of resources to expand mental health services in rural areas of Fresno County. The authors discuss the process of translating research into action, key antecedents to an effective outcome, and lessons learned from the process.
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