This study examines the prevalence of mental illness among Latino immigrants, U.S.-born Latinos, and non-Latino whites, testing the immigrant paradox—where foreign nativity is protective against psychiatric disorders. Using data from the National Latino and Asian American Study and the National Comorbidity Survey Replication, the researchers found that while Latinos overall have lower rates of most psychiatric disorders compared to non-Latino whites, the immigrant paradox is more evident among Mexicans for mood, anxiety, and substance disorders. For Cubans and Other Latinos, the paradox is only observed for substance disorders. No significant differences were found between migrant and U.S.-born Puerto Ricans. The findings suggest that the protective effect of nativity varies by type of disorder and sub-ethnicity, highlighting the need for caution in generalizing the immigrant paradox to all Latinos. The study also underscores the importance of understanding specific cultural factors that influence mental health within different Latino subgroups.This study examines the prevalence of mental illness among Latino immigrants, U.S.-born Latinos, and non-Latino whites, testing the immigrant paradox—where foreign nativity is protective against psychiatric disorders. Using data from the National Latino and Asian American Study and the National Comorbidity Survey Replication, the researchers found that while Latinos overall have lower rates of most psychiatric disorders compared to non-Latino whites, the immigrant paradox is more evident among Mexicans for mood, anxiety, and substance disorders. For Cubans and Other Latinos, the paradox is only observed for substance disorders. No significant differences were found between migrant and U.S.-born Puerto Ricans. The findings suggest that the protective effect of nativity varies by type of disorder and sub-ethnicity, highlighting the need for caution in generalizing the immigrant paradox to all Latinos. The study also underscores the importance of understanding specific cultural factors that influence mental health within different Latino subgroups.