Did you know that  a large percentage of individuals that suffer from mental health illnesses are African American? In fact, we tend to suffer from more severe forms of mental health illnesses such as Major Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder than any other race (NAMI, 2019). Why do you think this is? Lack of access to care, education and the mental health stigma are all large factors. Let’s talk. 

#1- Lack of Access to Care– Why does this exist?  Racial tension and discrimination are probably two of the largest reasons. For most of America’s history the African American population has been treated and viewed as an inferior species. They were initially  enslaved and then continued to be discriminated against even after slavery ended. With the majority of clinicians being white males, few African Americans feel comfortable attending appointments. They don’t trust the providers to provide non bias care. On the opposite side of this spectrum is that many health care workers are not culturally competent. This means that many providers do not understand the African American culture and may often misdiagnose conditions (NAMI, 2019). Due to this, mental illnesses go untreated and become more severe. Lack of insurance and low income are also reasons that contribute to the lack of individuals seeking care. However, they are not at the top of the list because with or without insurance African Americans are still hesitant to seek care. 

#2- Lack of Education- Now “lack of education” does not mean that we as African Americans are not educated. It simply means that the population is not receiving the correct information about mental health illnesses. Many times, we are not presented with any facts beyond what we see or hear. This lack of education and resources concerning mental health illnesses exists in every culture and population. Individuals do not discuss mental health illnesses including providers. Because of this, many of the conversations being held concerning these disorders are not correct. If you had a family member who suddenly appeared to be acting differently, would you recognize signs of mental illness? Many illnesses are not recognized until they are further along in development. The misunderstanding of mental health illnesses often leads to the shaming of individuals with these disorders. They are afraid to talk about issues they may be experiencing. This also leads to a lack of early treatment and our next topic, stigma.

#3- Mental Health Stigma- Now there are several pieces that contribute to this stigma. Let’s start with religion and spirituality. Many African Americans including myself have strong faith systems. In the times of storms, it was the belief in a higher power that kept many of our ancestors and our families going. A concern with this strong faith system however is the belief that the only way to conquer mental health illness is with God and no other support systems. In actuality, treatment can include a variety of different methods with spirituality and faith at the forefront. Research shows that individuals in therapy or other treatment regimens that also have a strong bond with a higher power or belief systems tend to have more positive outcomes.  Another contributor to the stigma is family. Many African American families are close knit. We usually stick together and attempt to handle all problems on our own. If you need counseling,  you go to the preacher. No family issues are discussed with outsiders. This mindset keeps family problems, family problems. It often prevents individuals from getting the help or support they need. This causes issues to be transferred from generation to generation.

Having read all of this information and breaking down many of the issues we face as African Americans in dealing with mental health illnesses, what’s next? Use this information to bring about a positive change in our community. Get educated and educate others. If you are a provider, no matter your race or religion, please take the time to become culturally competent in other cultures outside of your own. Spread mental health awareness. Let others know that there is support. Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. Join me in BREAKING THE STIGMA!

Thank You,

Kim Natson RN, MSN