In the Black and African American communities, it can be difficult to seek help for mental health issues due to various factors. Research shows that many Black adults, especially older generations, view mental health conditions as a sign of personal weakness. Licensed mental health counselor and owner of The Art of Healing Jacksonville, Nyasha Poitier, attributes this mindset to the community’s historical experiences of perseverance and resilience.
Despite facing a 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. According to Poitier, lack of awareness about mental health and distrust of providers due to past experiences of prejudice and racism contribute significantly to this gap in seeking care.
Poitier emphasizes the importance of representation in encouraging Black individuals to seek counseling and pursue careers in mental health. She suggests 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 despite the challenges they may face. Organizations like The Art of Healing Jacksonville aim to provide inclusive and supportive resources for individuals seeking mental health support.
In conclusion, seeking help for mental health issues can be challenging in Black and African American communities due to various factors such as stigma, lack of awareness, distrust, and representation gaps. However, with organizations like The Art of Healing Jacksonville providing inclusive resources and promoting culturally competent care, individuals can overcome these barriers and receive the support they need for a healthy life.