Speaking the Same Language: Building Cultural Connections in Mental Health
Tue Oct 14 2025
In this episode of OK State of Mind, a Family & Children’s Services podcast, Joana Melendez, School-Based Programs Supervisor, and Nichole Duck, School-Based Programs Director, unpack the complex realities of mental health within Mexican-American and Native American communities. From generational stigma and language barriers to historical mistrust and faith-based taboos, they explore how culture deeply shapes access to care and perceptions of wellness.
Together, Joana and Nichole discuss how Family & Children’s Services is addressing these challenges head-on — through bilingual services, culturally fluent communication, and community partnerships that honor mind, body, and spirit. They share firsthand insights from their school-based work, revealing how representation, trust, and simple human connection can transform fear into healing.
Support and stay connected to us. First, be sure to hit that subscribe button wherever you're listening to us. Subscribing ensures you never miss an episode, and it's absolutely free. It also helps us continue bringing you quality content.
Consider leaving us a review. Your reviews not only make our day, but they also help others discover the podcast and join our community.
Share this episode with your friends, family, and anyone who might find it interesting. Word of mouth is a powerful way to grow our podcast family, and we truly appreciate your support.
We're always eager to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for future episodes. Visit www.okstateofmind.com for all of our episodes. You can also email us at communications@fcsok.org with any episode ideas or questions. We'd love to connect with you.
Thank you once again for accompanying us on the journey. Until next time!
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In this episode of OK State of Mind, a Family & Children’s Services podcast, Joana Melendez, School-Based Programs Supervisor, and Nichole Duck, School-Based Programs Director, unpack the complex realities of mental health within Mexican-American and Native American communities. From generational stigma and language barriers to historical mistrust and faith-based taboos, they explore how culture deeply shapes access to care and perceptions of wellness. Together, Joana and Nichole discuss how Family & Children’s Services is addressing these challenges head-on — through bilingual services, culturally fluent communication, and community partnerships that honor mind, body, and spirit. They share firsthand insights from their school-based work, revealing how representation, trust, and simple human connection can transform fear into healing. Support and stay connected to us. First, be sure to hit that subscribe button wherever you're listening to us. Subscribing ensures you never miss an episode, and it's absolutely free. It also helps us continue bringing you quality content. Consider leaving us a review. Your reviews not only make our day, but they also help others discover the podcast and join our community. Share this episode with your friends, family, and anyone who might find it interesting. Word of mouth is a powerful way to grow our podcast family, and we truly appreciate your support. We're always eager to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for future episodes. Visit www.okstateofmind.com for all of our episodes. You can also email us at communications@fcsok.org with any episode ideas or questions. We'd love to connect with you. Thank you once again for accompanying us on the journey. Until next time!