Supporting Black Mental Health

The topic of mental illness is often taboo in the Black community.

The stigma associated with mental health issues has led to a lack of understanding about what causes them and how to treat them.

There is often this myth that Black people face more mental health conditions than white people. But it’s just not true. In fact, African Americans and white people experience about the same amount of mental health issues. But the historical Black experience in America has and continues to be characterized by trauma, violence and other forms of oppression more often.

The real question becomes: If we eliminate this stigma, can people of color get the mental health care they need?

The answer is yes. In fact, research shows that African Americans with mental illness are more likely than whites to seek treatment. And when they do seek help, they are less likely to be hospitalized.

Our Solution

• Many Black youth experience depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts and other issues that can be addressed through effective treatment. Oftentimes, the problem is not that Black people don’t seek help for mental health issues. It’s that most of the psychologists, social workers and mental health professionals in this country don’t come from diverse backgrounds, which means there is a lack of culturally competent care among providers who serve communities of color. We aim to fill that gap through our Healing Hurting Hearts program, where we provide support for mothers whose children have died from gun violence. The program also gives us an opportunity to lift up the importance of talking about Black mental health issues so that people of all races and ethnicities can get access to the services they need.

Other Resources

Want to learn more about this issue? Check out the following resources:

• Black Mental Health Alliance
• Black Communities and Mental Health
• 44 Mental Health Resources for Black People Trying to Survive in This Country
• California’s Mental Health Movement
• Young Black Athletes Are Launching a Mental Health Revolution
• How Can We Break Mental Health Barriers in Communities of Color?