Recognizing National Minority Mental Health Month
Mental health affects everyone, regardless of their background, race, gender, or identity. However, some communities face more challenges accessing health care. Barriers like limited access, lower quality care, and cultural stigma can affect someone's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, started in 2008, aims to address these disparities among minority groups.
The Facts
According to the Substance Abuse and Health including and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):
In 2021, 40.6% of youth aged 12-17 received care for a major depressive episode. When broken down by race, 47.4% of White, non-Hispanic youth and 41.2% of Black, non-Hispanic youth received treatment. However, only 30.2% of Hispanic youth.
Asian American adults were less likely to use mental health services compared to other groups.
Rates of depressive episodes were higher among American Indian and Alaska Native youth (17%) and Hispanic youth (14.6%). The national average is 13%.
In 2021, 22.8% of adults (57.8 million people) experienced a mental health including illness. Rates were higher among people of two or more races (34.9%), American Indian and Alaskan Natives (26.6), and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders (18.1%).
Importance of Culturally Competent Care
Culturally competent care involves delivering effective, quality health services that acknowledge and respect the diverse beliefs, attitudes, and backgrounds of patients.
This approach not only addresses cultural and linguistic differences but also enhances patient engagement, safety, and overall treatment outcomes. By reducing disparities, culturally competent care plays a pivotal role in ensuring equitable access to mental health services.
Stories of Resilience
Naomi Osaka
Naomi Osaka, known for her exceptional tennis skills, became a strong supporter of mental health awareness, especially among athletes. In May 2021, Osaka left the French Open, explaining that media pressure worsened her depression and anxiety. This started an important conversation about athletes' mental health struggles and the need for more support and understanding.
Constance Wu
Actress Constance Wu has shared her personal struggles with mental health in the face of public scrutiny. After facing criticism for her remarks about ABC’s sitcom 'Fresh Off the Boat', Constance Wu shared that she felt suicidal and overwhelmed with shame. Her story shows how much pressure people can feel to succeed and represent their communities positively.
Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey, celebrated for her musical achievements, has bravely disclosed her ongoing battle with bipolar disorder. Diagnosed in 2001, Carey had a hard time accepting her condition because of the stigma and shame still present in society. By sharing her story openly, Carey has helped raise awareness and lessen the stigma around mental illness. She inspires others to seek help and find support.
Taking Action
Supporting minority mental health requires everyone to take action:
1. Educate Yourself: Learn about the unique mental health challenges faced by minority communities. Engage in educational resources, workshops, and literature to understand better.
2. Challenge Stigma: Speak out against mental health stigma and discrimination. Advocate for increased awareness and support in your community and workplace.
3. Offer Support: Help individuals and families experiencing challenges. Provide encouragement, resources, and assistance in accessing mental health services.
4. Advocate for Change: Participate in efforts to improve mental health including care access and quality for minority populations. Join local initiatives and campaigns promoting mental health equity.
5. Foster Community Engagement: Collaborate with community leaders and organizations to create inclusive environments and initiatives supporting health including awareness.
Seeking Help
Despite advancements, significant disparities remain in healthcare, including care access and outcomes for racial and ethnic minority groups. Minority populations are less likely to access healthcare services. They are more likely to use emergency care, resulting in lower quality care and poorer outcomes.
At Acenda Integrated Health, our clinicians understand and address the diverse needs of our community. We offer comprehensive counseling services tailored to individuals, couples, and families from all backgrounds. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 844-4-ACENDA.
Together we can work towards a future where health including care is accessible and equitable for all individuals.