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How To Make Mental Healthcare More Accessible To Black Americans

Author:

Tamieka Welsh, MSW

March 31, 2024

Social Worker

By Tamieka Welsh, MSW

Social Worker

Tamieka Welsh holds a B.S. in Social Work from North Carolina A&T and a Master’s in Social work with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health from Columbia University. As a Social Work Professor at Howard University and New York University, she continues to inspire the next generation of change agents. Tamieka is dedicated to eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health and raises awareness about its importance through her writing. When she is not writing, she enjoys immersing herself in nature, listening to music and engaging in volunteer work.

Image by GIC / Stocksy

March 31, 2024

The conversation about mental health has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Public figures, including celebrities and influencers, have become increasingly open about their struggles with mental health, particularly within the Black community.

Additionally, the younger generations, including Gen Z and Millennials, have actively contributed to this discourse, motivating older generations to engage in conversations with their peers, delve deeper into mental health awareness, and adjust their perspectives.

Yet for many Black Americans, navigating mental health can still be daunting given lingering stigmas, an unjust healthcare system, and uncertainty of where to seek support or guidance.

Why Black Americans are less likely to seek mental health treatment

While discussions surrounding mental health have become more normalized, statistics show that Black Americans are still far less likely to seek mental health treatment. By some estimates, about 25% of Black Americans seek mental health treatment, compared to 40% of white Americans.

One major contributor to this disparity is unequal access to health care. Nearly 10% of Black Americans do not have health insurance, compared to 5.2% of non-Hispanic white people, making it much harder to afford treatment. People of color are far more likely to be uninsured in America, due in part to several states’ refusal to expand Medicaid.

The Black community also has a long history of experiencing prejudice and discrimination within the U.S. healthcare system.

The relationship between a person and their mental health provider is a key aspect of treatment. It's essential that practitioners understand the historical and cultural contexts of mental health in the Black community. Recognizing the profound influence of historical trauma is essential in cultivating empathy, facilitating healing, and confronting lingering mental health disparities.

Mental health tips for the Black community

Connect with local community support groups

Connect with local community support groups that provide a safe space for Black individuals. This will allow you to feel comfortable while exchanging your experiences with mental health. It will also offer mutual support, foster empowerment, and help you advocate for change.

Focus on your needs

Prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional well-being to prevent burnout. This will enable you to connect with yourself while figuring out what you need in the present moment. It will also enhance personal and professional relationships, leaving you to become present for yourself and others.

Support mental health resources for the Black community

There are numerous approaches to promoting awareness about the significance of mental health within the Black community. A powerful strategy for anyone, regardless of race, is supporting organizations that assist Black communities through contributions or donations. As we continue discussing the importance of Black mental health, we can learn a lot from each other and break the stigma. Below are several organizations committed to aiding Black individuals dealing with mental health challenges.

The takeaway

It’s vital for everyone to prioritize their mental health every day. The conversation around mental health in the Black community is just beginning. There is still work to be done—and your part in the conversation matters.