Being Black in America comes with a unique experience that varies between individuals. Oftentimes, shared cultural factors in the Black community play a significant role in shaping one's perspective on mental health.
Family values, relationships, religion, and even the connection to certain songs can influence where the source of one's strength and support comes from.
On the flip side, the Black community is historically known to be subjected to racism, discrimination, and inequity - which greatly impacts one's mental health.
For centuries, African Americans have endured the detriments of racism since before 1619, which many consider to be the starting point of slavery in America.
Post Traumatic Slavery Syndrome (PTSS) is a condition that exists as a consequence of the multigenerational oppression of Africans and their descendants resulting from centuries of chattel slavery.
Imagine being treated differently or even killed for the color of your skin. Black Americans experience stress and trauma that many will never fully understand. In addition, Black Americans also have a difficult time accessing adequate healthcare and treatment to combat their needs.
Educating ourselves about the disparities of mental health in the Black community is integral to challenging the gaps in our healthcare system and providing equal services to all.
Did you know that only one in three Black adults with mental illnesses receive treatment?
The Black community faces different challenges that continue to plague a demographic in our society that's constantly overlooked - this statistic needs to be addressed.
In the Black community, it can be incredibly challenging to discuss the topic of mental health due to how others may perceive them. This fear could prevent people from seeking mental health care.
Seek Culturally Competent and Inclusive Care
It's important to receive care from a culturally aware provider who is educated about the challenges the Black community faces in our healthcare system.
Brother You're on My Mind - An initiative launched by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and NIMHD to raise awareness of the mental health challenges associated with depression and stress that affect Black men and families. The website offers an online toolkit that provides Omega Psi Phi Fraternity chapters with the materials needed to educate fellow fraternity brothers and community members on depression and stress in Black men.
Therapy for Black Girls - Online space dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls. Offers a nationwide list of mental health professionals who provide high-quality, culturally competent services to Black women and girls, an informational podcast, and an online support community.
The SIWE Project is a non-profit dedicated to promoting mental health awareness throughout the global Black community.
The Steve Fund - Organization focused on supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of young people of color.
Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM) - Group aimed at removing the barriers Black people experience in accessing or staying connected with emotional health care and healing through education, training, advocacy, and the creative arts.
Black Men Heal - Limited and selective free mental health service opportunities for Black men.
Black Mental Health Alliance — provides information, resources, and a "Find a Therapist" locator to connect with a culturally competent mental health professional. Call 410) 338-2642 for services and information.
Black Mental Wellness - Provides access to evidence-based information and resources about mental health and behavioral health topics from a Black perspective and training opportunities for students and professionals.
Black Women's Health Imperative - Organization advancing health equity and social justice for Black women through policy, advocacy, education, research and leadership development
Ebony's Mental Health Resources by State - List of Black-owned and focused mental health resources by state as compiled by Ebony magazine.
Melanin and Mental Health - Connects individuals with culturally competent clinicians committed to serving the mental health needs of Black & Latinx/Hispanic communities. Promotes the growth and healing of diverse communities through its website, online directory, and events.
Mocha Health - Online community for Black women to seek support.
Ourselves Black - Provides information on promoting mental health and developing positive coping mechanisms through a podcast, online magazine, and online discussion groups.
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