What is Llama la Latina?

Llama a La Latina is a research-backed mental health podcast bringing awareness to contemporary youth concerns revolving around their psychological and mental well-being.

Problem

With the lack of physical third spaces for youth, compounded by a rise in isolation and loneliness, youth are inadvertently driving themselves into dangerous online spaces to gain a sense of connection, primarily visible through youth utilizing AI chatbots to connect to and receive mental health support from instead of others. Unfortunately, AI chatbots are not equipped to handle mental health concerns and can encourage engagement in harmful behaviors, including suicide. Furthermore, the rise in online cultures criticizing emotional expression, such as the "it's not that deep" trend, has been preventing openness in discussing mental health and encouraging apathy in order to not be seen as "cringe" online and by peers.

Solution

Our workshop series will amplify authentic narratives of young people along with important educational material regarding the connection between digital wellbeing and cancer control behaviors (physical activity, drinking, smoking, etc) Additionally, we will create a "State of Digital Wellbeing" guide for University of Maryland students (and young people beyond!) to utilize to manage their digital wellness through a long-term cancer control lens!