What happens at the intersection of mental health and one’s experience as a member of the Black community? While the experience of being Black in America varies tremendously, there are shared cultural factors that play a role in helping define mental health and supporting well-being, resiliency and healing. Show
Parts of this shared cultural experience — family connections, values, expression through spirituality or music, reliance on community and religious networks — are enriching and can be great sources of strength and support. However, another part of this shared experience - being subject to racism, discrimination and inequity- can significantly affect a person’s mental health. Being treated or perceived as “less than” because of the color of your skin can be stressful and even traumatizing. Additionally, members of the Black community face structural challenges accessing the care and treatment they need. According to the Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, Black adults in the U.S. are more likely than white adults to report persistent symptoms of emotional distress, such as sadness and feeling like everything is an effort. Black adults living below the poverty line are more than twice as likely to report serious psychological distress than those with more financial security. Despite the needs, only one in three Black adults with mental illness receive treatment. According to the American Psychiatric Association’s Mental Health Facts for African Americans guide, they are also:
Barriers to Mental Health CareSocioeconomic Disparities The Black community, like other communities of color, are more likely to experience socioeconomic disparities such as exclusion from health, educational, social and economic resources. These disparities may contribute to worse mental health outcomes. Stigma For many in the Black community, it can be incredibly challenging to discuss the topic of mental health due to how they may be perceived by others. This fear could prevent people from seeking mental health care when they really need it. Additionally, many people choose to seek support from their faith community rather than seeking a medical diagnosis. In many Black communities in the U.S., the church, mosque or other faith institution can play a central role as a meeting place and source of strength. Faith and spirituality can help in the recovery process and be an important part of a treatment plan. For example, spiritual leaders and faith communities can provide support and reduce isolation. However, they should not be the only option for people whose daily functioning is impaired by mental health symptoms. Provider Bias and Inequality of Care Black people may also be more likely to identify and describe physical symptoms related to mental health problems. For example, they may describe bodily aches and pains when talking about depression. A health care provider who is not culturally competent might not recognize these as symptoms of a mental health condition. Additionally, Black individuals are more likely to receive a misdiagnosis of schizophrenia when expressing symptoms related to mood disorders. How to Seek Culturally Competent CareWhen a person is experiencing challenges with their mental health, it is essential for them to receive quality care as soon as the symptoms are recognized. It is equally important that the care they receive is provided by culturally competent health care professionals. While we recommend seeking help from a mental health professional, a primary care professional is also a great place to start. A primary care professional might be able to provide an initial mental health assessment and referral to a mental health professional if needed. Community and faith organizations may also have a list of available mental health providers in your area. When meeting with a provider, it can be helpful to ask questions to get a sense of their level of cultural awareness. Providers expect and welcome questions from their patients or clients, since this helps them better understand what is important in their treatment. Here are some sample questions:
Whether you seek help from a primary care professional or a mental health professional, you should finish your sessions with the health care professional feeling heard and respected. You may want to ask yourself:
The relationship and communication between a person and their mental health provider is a key aspect of treatment. It’s very important for a person to feel that their identity is understood by their provider in order to receive the best possible support and care. More Information
NAMI’s Sharing Hope ProgramLack of information surrounding mental health issues can prevent Black individuals from getting the help and support they need. Sharing Hope is a three-part video series that explores the journey of mental wellness in Black communities through dialogue, storytelling and a guided discussion on the following topics:
Black Mental Health ResourcesPlease note: The resources included here are not endorsed by NAMI, and NAMI is not responsible for the content of or service provided by any of these resources. Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM) Black Men Heal Black Mental Health Alliance — (410) 338-2642 Black Mental Wellness Black Women’s Health Imperative Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation Brother You’re on My Mind Ebony's Mental Health Resources by State Melanin and Mental Health Mocha Health Ourselves Black POC Online Classroom Sista Afya Therapy for Black Girls The SIWE Project The Steve Fund Self-Care for People of ColorWe recognize that many mental health conditions are being triggered as a result of the coronavirus, the economic crisis and repeated racist incidents and death. Learn more about mental health conditions including anxiety disorders, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Treatment Directories
Educational Resources on Racism And InequalityUnderstanding the context of racism and recent events
Understanding the context of racial inequality that impacts mental health
Understanding and addressing the social determinants of health that impact mental health
Ways to Take Action as An Ally or Champion for People of Color
Books to Read
Which of the following is the most prominent reason for the insular nature of Native American culture?1. Which of the following is the most prominent reason for the insular nature of Native American culture? C. disharmony between the person and nature.
Which of the following statements best describe the difference between traditional healers as opposed to Western providers?1. Which best describes the difference between traditional healers as opposed to Western providers? B. Traditional healing is circular in nature.
|