Breaking Down the Barriers: Mental Health for Minorities

Around one in four people nationwide struggle with a mental health issue. For members of minority communities, getting help for mental illness has a long history of being an uphill battle. Stigmas and a culturally insensitive healthcare system create barriers to accessing care. While lower rates of insurance coverage and provider biases further limit treatment options. Because of this, minority communities are less likely to seek treatment and more likely to develop unhealthy ways to cope on their own. Minority communities experience higher cases of violence, domestic abuse, substance abuse, and suicide rates because of these disparities in mental health.
‍

What you can do to help
‍

According to the American Psychiatric Association, minorities have a significant disadvantage in the outcomes of mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. Researchers believe this is a result of the marginalization that minority communities face. Here’s what you can do to help these communities get more efficient access to quality mental healthcare:

• Help to decrease the stigma surrounding mental health - Start open conversations about the importance of mental health.

• Be an advocate for mental health - Check in with friends and family. Let them know that you’re a safe space if they need someone to talk to, or need help finding resources. Many people feel isolated or ashamed about mental health struggles but will often open up when approached in a genuine and nonjudgemental way.

• Share the facts about minority mental health - National Minority Mental Health Month was started in 2008 as an awareness initiative to help bring about a positive change. This initiative relies on those willing to learn about and share the topic.

• Share your story - Sharing the challenges and accomplishments of your own mental health journey (if you feel able to share) can be helpful for others who may feel alone or embarrassed to take the first step.

• Offer your time or talent - There are many ways you can support diverse communities in your area. From language interpretation to being a volunteer victims advocate or helping with fundraising campaigns. Contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness for more on where and how to start.
  ‍

How to find the right help

Finding a therapist who has cultural awareness about the mental health of minority communities can be difficult. Using online sources to find recommendations and testimonials is a great way to start your search. The American Society of Suicide Prevention offers an extensive list of mental health resources for underrepresented communities, and can even give you local recommendations. Make a list of therapists and mental health clinics in your area and then consider these questions:

• Read any online reviews (check Google, Yelp, and PsycholgyToday.com). You could also ask on hyperlocal community forums (Facebook and Reddit are both good places to find local community reviews).

• Check out their website and social media. Do they have any posts about minority mental health, or talk about cultural responsiveness?

• Call or email and ask about how they work to prioritize minority mental health in their communities.

• Schedule an introduction session. For those who seem like a good fit, schedule a visit to continue your vetting process. During this time you can ask specific questions about their knowledge of minority cultures and minority mental health.
  ‍

Minority mental health care in CA and NV

If you or someone you know is in the California or Nevada areas and is searching for a mental health clinic that is culturally sensitive to minority communities, Medens Health is taking new patients. You can read more about our culturally responsive practice on our website, and reach out to us by phone or text at (833) 624-5400, or by filling out our online contact form.

‍

^Disclaimer:

^{‍The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical or mental health. If you don’t currently have a therapist, we can connect you with one who is qualified to give you safe, professional, and ethical advice regarding your mental health.}

^{If you or someone you are responsible for is experiencing a medical emergency, is considering harming themselves or others, or is otherwise in imminent danger, you should call 9-1-1 and/or take them to the nearest emergency room.}