African mental health: Challenges, strengths, and heroes

Black and African American communities have been excluded from social and economic opportunities and resources in the past. This exclusion still affects them today. Black and African American individuals are more likely to live in poverty than white, Asian, Hispanic, and multiracial individuals. Black families living in the U.S. have about one-twentieth the wealth of their white peers, on average. This wealth inequality puts communities of African descent at a higher risk for developing a mental health condition.

Racism continues to have an impact on the mental health of people of African descent. Negative treatment and profiling have led to a mistrust of police, medical professionals, and other authorities. Many times authorities are seen as not having the best interests of Black and African Americans in mind. This leads to increased fear and anxiety for Black and African American individuals.

Black and African American individuals areless likely to receive qualityhealth care. Black and African American individuals are also diagnosed with schizophrenia more often than white people with the same symptoms. This is because of the racist perception that Black people are violent or dangerous, which is often associated with schizophrenia. Black individuals are alsooffered medication or therapy at lower rates than the general population due to the implicit racial bias of health care providers. Additionally, less than half of Black children living with their parents are covered by private health insurance, which leads to a lack of treatment due to cost.

Communities of African descent are overrepresented in the justice system. Black and African American people with mental health conditions aremore likely to be in jail or prison than people of other races. This is especially true for those experiencing psychosis.

Stigma and judgment may prevent people of African descent from seeking treatment. Research shows that many people in this community experiencing mild depression or anxiety believe they would be judged as weak by their social circles. Communities of African descent may also believe that discussions about mental illnessare not appropriate, even among family.

Cultural values like family/community connection and artistic expression can be great sources of strength for Black and African American communities. Research has found social and emotional support to be among the most significant protective factors in the mental health of Black populations.

Religion and faith can support mental health for people of African descent in many ways. It can connect individuals to a community of people with a common interest. Studies show that for Black and African American individuals, belonging to a faith community can improve social connection and spiritual health. It can also provide a deeper meaning and structure to their lives.

Connecting to Black identity can be another factor in resilience for Black individuals. Having a strong sense of community, heritage, and history contribute to this identity.