I have noticed that when I hear conversations about Black History, I often hear the word “resilient” used. After all, most of us of African ancestry are descended from Africans who survived the crossing to the United States, the Caribbean, Latin America, and Europe or who endured the colonization of their native African countries.  

While the incredible stories of survival and success stories of those who displayed grit and ingenuity that empowered them to accomplish great things are worthy of celebration, I think we sometimes fail to consider the reality that being resilient does not mean being invincible. It does not mean superhuman. Because of many factors, far too many in the African American community are going without much-needed mental health care.  

Barriers to Mental Health Care

The belief that we don’t or shouldn’t need mental health care

One of those factors is a deeply-rooted belief that we don’t or shouldn’t need mental health care.

There’s the expectation of having to be a strong Black woman who can care for everyone else and doesn’t need anything from anyone. There’s also the pressure that many men in general, and Black men in particular, feel to guard against displaying any hint of vulnerability for fear that it will be exploited.  

No safe space to discuss

Too many in the Black community have no sense of a safe space where they can be open, honest, and even vulnerable without fear of judgment or of having the things they share to be used against them. This is causing far too many to walk around with untreated anxiety, depression, and sometimes more chronic or severe mental illness. Not only are people in the Black community carrying burdens alone that they would do well to share, but their unaddressed mental health issues also affect their ability to function at work, in their roles as parents, in their relationships, and at school. 

Intergenerational trauma

The cycle continues from one generation to the next, causing cracks to develop and deepen within the foundation of the entire community. The impact of intergenerational trauma alone is its own area of emerging research. 

Socioeconomic factors

So, how much of an issue is untreated mental illness in the Black community? First, it’s important to note the socioeconomic factors relevant to mental health: African Americans are more likely to be exposed to factors such as homelessness and violence, which increase the risk of developing a mental health condition. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority health:

  • In 2019, suicide was the second leading cause of death for Blacks or African Americans ages 15 to 24.
  • Black females, grades 9-12, were 60% more likely to attempt suicide in 2019 than non-Hispanic white females of the same age. 
  • Poverty level affects mental health status. Black or African Americans living below the poverty level, compared to those over twice the poverty level, are twice as likely to report serious psychological distress. 

Reach out to Family Counseling Service for help

How can members of the Black community begin to dismantle some of the barriers to getting mental health care? It starts with one person deciding to make one choice to care for themselves or their child. One decision, one phone call, one step forward into health.

If you are struggling with your mental health, getting the help you need from a qualified mental health provider is crucial. Family Counseling Service is here to help. Call us at 630-844-2662 or contact us online to schedule individual therapy. Hope Starts Here at FCS.