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Anna Tepedino
Jul 73 min read

Experiencing Padula: A Journey Through Italian Culture and Mental Well-Being

My paternal family is from Italy. I recently visited a small mountain town in southern Italy called Padula, where my grandfather, his siblings, and his parents were born. Like many families in the early 1900s, they faced hardships due to the war and decided to migrate to the Americas. They first stopped in New York City but eventually settled in Colombia, where my great-grandmother had a few relatives.



My grandfather and grandmother had five children, with my dad being the oldest. We have a large family, but only a few have been fortunate enough to travel back to Padula. This summer, I was one of the lucky ones. I traveled with my family, including my oldest brother and his wife. We reserved a full day for Padula, staying at what may be the only hotel there, with a mental itinerary but no reservations beyond the hotel.


My trip to Padula highlighted the essence of what many studies emphasize about Italian culture and its positive impact on mental health. Italy's mental health statistics are often highlighted positively in various studies due to several key factors. The traditional Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil, is linked to lower rates of depression and anxiety. Strong family ties and community support inherent in Italian culture contribute significantly to better mental health by providing robust social support. Italians also benefit from higher levels of physical activity, such as walking and cycling, which are known to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. The accessibility and quality of Italy's healthcare system, which offers extensive mental health services, play a crucial role in promoting mental well-being. Additionally, Italy has lower rates of substance abuse compared to some Western countries, further supporting better overall mental health outcomes. These factors collectively contribute to Italy's relatively positive mental health landscape.


During my trip to Padula, I experienced the food, yes, but most importantly, the community support that Italian culture is known for. We found a neighborhood playground where my child made new friends despite the language barriers, and I chatted with two grandmothers who, in spite of my broken Italian, were keen to get to know me and also share a bit of their life story. I learned one of the ladies was a widow who spoke about her late husband with fervor. In my practice, I've learned that losing a spouse is often one of the hardest losses a person can experience in their lifetime. From her slight melancholy, I could suspect this had undoubtedly been hard for her; however, she said she had her dear friend and neighbor and how they found solace in their company. Together, we shared laughs and stories, and their candor made me reflect upon the importance of social connections and community support in maintaining mental well-being. This experience underscored the strong cultural values that contribute to Italy's positive mental health statistics.


Reflecting on this experience, I invite you to consider: How do social connections and community support play a role in your mental well-being? In what ways can you strengthen your own social support network? How can you contribute to fostering a sense of community and connection for others around you?


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