Black and African American Communities and Mental Health

In America, mental health conditions occur in Black and African American (B/AA) individuals at similar or lower rates than in White Americans, but their historical and ongoing experiences with trauma and violence contribute to significant emotional and mental health impacts. The legacy of dehumanization, oppression, and violence against Black and African American people has transformed into present-day racism, spanning structural, institutional, and individual levels, leading to a community experience marked by mistrust and disparities, including inadequate access to healthcare.

The accumulation of individual and mass traumas, such as those from COVID-19, police brutality, and divisive politics, further complicates mental health management. Help-seeking behavior is influenced by mistrust of the medical system, often beginning with faith-based outreach. Although Black and African American individuals who screen positive for depression express intent to seek help at higher rates than the general population, there is a shortage of Black and African American providers in the behavioral health workforce.

Key demographics and societal issues compound these challenges, including socioeconomic disparities rooted in historical adversity such as slavery and race-based exclusion from resources. Despite progress, racism continues to impact the mental health of Black and African American people, contributing to mistrust of authorities and perpetuating negative stereotypes and attitudes. Efforts to address these issues and eliminate inequities in mental health services are crucial for supporting recovery and well-being within these communities.

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