Raising Awareness of Mental Health Among African Americans

As we honor Black history month during February, we must also take this opportunity to raise awareness of mental health in the Black community. If mental health remains unacknowledged, the Black community will remain incomplete until mental health disparities among this group are addressed. Mental health is an essential part of overall physical health and satisfaction. According to Vance (2019), there is an increased rate of mental health concerns, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Major Depression in the Black community. The increase of psychological difficulties in the Black community is related to racism, discrimination, and intergenerational trauma. Other disparities, such as economic, social, political influences may also increase the risk of developing a mental health disorder (Vance, 2019). These disparities are not new phenomenons, they have been present and passed down for generations. Raising awareness of mental health in the Black community can reduce the stigma and break down barriers.

Members of the Black community face structural challenges accessing the care and treatment they need. Despite of needs, only one in three Black adults who need mental health care receive it (Vance, 2019). Moreover, Black adults are also more likely to go to the emergency room or primary care rather than a mental health specialist. According to Vance (2019), adults in the Black community are 20% more likely to develop a serious mental health disorder when compared to white adults. Also, Black adults are more likely than white adults to report symptoms of emotional distress, for example, sadness and hopelessness. These symptoms can be generated due to living in poverty or experiencing socioeconomic disparities such as health, educational, social, and economic resources. Unfortunately, African Americans are more likely to live in poverty compared to any other racial group (Vance, 2019). Living in poverty can worsen mental health outcomes and prevent individuals or families from leaving poverty; creating a vicious intergenerational cycle of poverty and poor health.

Socioeconomic disparities are not the only barrier members of the Black community have to confront. According to Vance (2019), there is a significant stigma associated with mental health concerns within the Black Community. These ideas often lead individuals to have a negative attitude and belief towards people who suffer from mental health conditions. Studies have shown that 63% of Black individuals believe that mental health conditions are a sign of weakness (Vance, 2019). As a result, individuals who suffer from a mental health disorder experience a sense of shame and low self-esteem. Many of them fear being discriminated against due to their health conditions. This fear prevents members of the Black community to seek mental health care when they need it. However, due to the lack of acknowledgment and information, many members of the black community struggle with discussing the topic of mental health. Destigmatizing mental health is important because it can help individuals in the black community to understand that mental health care is an essential part of life.

Additionally, rather than seeking help from a mental health specialist, many Black individuals prefer support from their faith community or church. According to Vance (2019), in many Black communities, the church, mosque, and other faith institutions play a crucial role as a meeting place and source strength. Being part of a faith community can help in the recovery process because their personal beliefs, norms, values, and culture are being understood by a religious leader. However, many religious leaders are not trained to handle mental health disorders. Members of the Black community must understand that faith institution and churches are not their only options when wanting to receive mental health care.

Despite encouraging black individuals to seek help from a mental health specialist, many of them choose not to because of prejudice and discrimination in the health care system. Unfortunately, many Black individuals have negative experiences when attempting to seek treatment. According to Vance (2019), there are higher rates of mental health problems in the black community and lower rates of mental health services when compared to other racial groups. Additionally, many Black individuals who have received help have noticed a lack of cultural responsiveness. This can ultimately lead to mistrust of mental health professionals and create a barrier for many to engage in treatment. Therapists must be culturally responsive because it can provide the ability to adapt the treatment to meet the client’s needs within their cultural framework (Vance, 2019). It is recommended for clients to ask their providers questions so they can gain a sense of their level of cultural awareness. Providers expect and welcome questions as it can also help them better understand what is important in their treatment. Communication and cultural awareness between a person and their mental health care provider is a key aspect of treatment. Most importantly, Black individuals need to feel that their identities are understood by their providers in order to receive the best support.

References:
Vance, Thomas. (2019). Addressing Mental Health in the Black Community. Columbia University Department of Psychiatry

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About the Author:
Jennifer Rosales is an undergraduate intern from Fisher College in Boston, MA. ​​

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About SSCFC:
South Shore Child and Family Counseling is a private group psychotherapy practice consisting of a team of experienced clinicians. We are committed to the physical, mental, and social well-being of the residents of Braintree and  the surrounding area. Our team of talented and compassionate clinicians will work with you to help you overcome life’s most challenging situations and celebrate your accomplishments.