In the black community, mental health has been frowned upon and swept underneath the rug. Just like a kid trying to hide something from his parent, eventually, the item will be revealed, so will the symptoms and stress of silently dealing with mental health will be shown. It is no secret that black people deal with mental health issues like any other race; however, black people are more prone to not seek help because of the stigmas, the shame, and the cost. So, since no one wants to be labeled as “crazy,” black people tend not to seek the treatment they need. It will also not get into the professional field, where only 2% of black people are represented in the American Psychological Association.
Learn more at https://www.mhanational.org/issues/black-and-african-american-communities-and-mental-health.
HOWEVER, there is always a positive to a negative.
Lately, black millennials and gen-Z have been making it known about seeking therapy. So that means people are becoming more open and less shameful about seeking help. Of course, there is still more work to be done, but it is a start. Although there are only 2% of the black member in the American Psychological Association, there are not black professionals in other areas, such as the American Counseling Association, coaching, or even spiritual advisors. However, I would suggest that if you want a proper diagnosis, then seek licensed professionals that have a decent track record with their clients.
Experiencing Symptoms and not ready to seek help yet
If you are still not convinced about seeking therapy and experiencing symptoms, check out https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools. Here you can participate in a secure, confidential self-test without having to step foot in an office or talk with a professional. Some tests include; the depression test, PTSD, anxiety, and an eating disorder. I suggest that after taking the test to evaluate your current feelings about the test and to reach out to somebody that you know and trust that has information about resources for better understanding and possibly seeking a therapist. YOU GOT THIS! REMEMBER YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
Lastly, although it is great talking to your best friends about everything, sometimes that may experience burnout and start giving bad advice or not answering your calls. Get an unbiased opinion and learn more about what is going on with you.
Resources to check out: https://therapyforblackgirls.com, https://thelovelandfoundation.org, https://therapyforblackmen.org, https://borislhensonfoundation.org,
IG: @youngblkmindsmatter, @blackmalementalhealth, @Afriendofmind, @Therapyislight, @blacktherapistsrock
Adezza DuBose is a lover of love and mental health speaker. She thrives in uplifting black people and hyping them up to be the best version of themselves. She is a poet, author, and blogger and enjoys eating seafood and vegan food.
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