WASHINGTON, DC — Suicide is one of the leading causes of death nationwide, and the number of Black boys and men is growing at an alarming rate.
This month, Black Congressional leaders took a closer look at the crisis in recent hearings.
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It is also supported by the Sonrise Project, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by Kelly Richardson Lawson that provides a safe space for Black families facing mental health issues. I did.
It was organized by the Caucus of the Committee on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys.
The witness panel included social workers, psychologists and even athletes-turned-advocates like former NFL linebacker Marcus Smith.
“I’ve had millions of dollars and played in NFL arenas, but I’m no different than them. I want to leave them with one thing: the more you talk, the more free you are. ,” Smith said. in a video on social media after the hearing.
This hearing is provided as the latest CDC data It shows that suicide rates among Black children, teens, and young adults (ages 10-24) increased by 36 percent between 2018 and 2021.
“A disproportionate number of African American men incarcerated in the criminal justice system have actual behavioral health problems, substance use problems, and mental health problems.” said Arthur Evans, CEO of the American Psychological Association.
Dr. Arthur Evans was also one of those present at this Congressional hearing. He believes that while more people are talking about therapy, there is still a stigma.
“When it comes to our mental health…we want to be protective and secretive. If we really want to address these issues, we need to normalize it and talk about it.” Mr. Evans said.
Another barrier is access to culturally competent therapists. Currently, only 15 percent of the mental health counselor workforce is Black men.
“There’s nothing like going through counseling and sitting across from another Black man who can give you the help and real support you need,” said Sean Boynes, CEO of the American Counseling Association. said.
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Boynes, who also appeared on the panel, said the profession needs support from Congress to address workforce shortages and increase access.
The American Counseling Association wants Congress to pass the Telehealth Act of 2023, which would amend the Social Security Act to cover telehealth services for mental health and behavioral health care.
“It could be anxiety, it could be depression, or it could be something in between. We need to start talking about it in the Black community in a way that normalizes it,” Boynes said. “Mental health issues should not mean you have to hide and suffer in silence, just as you can reach out and get the help you need. I hope this helps you get the help you need.”
There are also calls on Capitol Hill to increase mental health programs in schools. One proposal is to provide grants to provide care from qualified therapists.s.
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