Bridging the Gap: Breaking Down Barriers to Mental Health Support in Black and African American Communities.
In the Black and African American communities, seeking help for mental health issues can be a daunting task. Research suggests that many Black adults, especially older generations, view mental health conditions as a sign of personal weakness. Nyasha Poitier, a licensed mental health counselor and owner of The Art of Healing Jacksonville, believes that this mindset stems from historical experiences of perseverance and resilience within the African American community.
Despite facing a 20% higher risk of serious mental health problems like depression or anxiety, only 25% of African Americans seek mental health treatment compared to 40% of white Americans. Poitier attributes this gap in care to a lack of awareness about mental health and distrust of providers due to past experiences of prejudice and racism.
Representation plays a critical role in encouraging Black individuals to seek counseling and pursue careers in mental health. Poitier emphasizes the importance of asking providers about their experience working with individuals from similar backgrounds and their cultural competence training. By bridging the gap between mental health services and African American communities, individuals can receive the support they need.
Poitier encourages individuals not to be discouraged from seeking help or pursuing careers in mental health. By asking questions and advocating for culturally competent care, African Americans can overcome barriers to accessing mental health services. Organizations like The Art of Healing Jacksonville aim to provide inclusive and supportive resources for individuals seeking mental health support.
In conclusion, seeking help with mental health issues can be challenging in Black and African American communities due to historical experiences of perseverance and resilience within the community. However, organizations like The Art of Healing Jacksonville aim to provide inclusive resources for individuals seeking support and promote culturally competent care in the field of mental health.
