While there is growing recognition that mental health is an important part of everyone’s overall health, access to appropriate care is increasingly lacking, especially in Black communities and underserved communities. There is a growing stigma against mental health in the community.
Events over the past few years have brought widespread attention to existing disparities in health care access, which are further accentuated by the large disparities between those who obtain or seek access to mental health care and those who do not. ing. Historical trauma, discrimination, lack of education, and economic disparities may all contribute to higher rates of mental health disorders and lower access to mental health services in these communities.
It’s true that statistics are tedious. In just three years, from 2018 to 2021, there was an alarming 36.6% increase in suicide deaths among Black children and youth ages 10 to 24. Between 2011 and 2021, suicide mortality rates for people of color increased significantly, to 58% for Black people. It’s 39% in the community and 39% in the Hispanic community, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
While the majority of society has felt more comfortable participating in discussions about mental health since the pandemic began, people from marginalized communities have historically faced discrimination that impacts mental health. and often find it especially difficult to participate in conversations. There is a significant stigma in these communities about admitting to having a mental health problem and therefore seeking help.
As a leader in providing free mental health support, education and advocacy, the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Miami-Dade County is a valuable resource for underserved communities. Our focus is to educate the public about mental health, strive to destigmatize mental illness, and advocate for increased funding for research into the causes and treatments of mental illness, especially among marginalized populations. It is to do. Raising awareness about mental health and its impact on individuals and families is extremely important and will go a long way in reducing the stigma associated with mental health.
NAMI Miami-Dade has a dedicated team, including Shara Johnson, NAMI’s Black and Underserved Outreach Coordinator, who works with schools, churches, organizations, and groups, especially in underserved communities. We provide outreach to.
NAMI Miami’s Black and Underserved Advisory Board is dedicated to advising on outreach opportunities and facilitating access to our communities. Our efforts focus on supporting older adults, the Haitian community, faith-based organizations, the LGBTQ community, schools, youth, mental health professionals, law enforcement, and their families. The team has built connections with local grassroots organizations to consolidate efforts and optimize effectiveness in serving marginalized communities.
NAMI Miami continues to spread the word that talking openly about mental health is healthy and leads to important conversations while helping people live healthier, happier lives. For example, NAMI’s Ending the Silence program is implemented in many schools in Miami-Dade County and helps children and families learn about the warning signs of mental health conditions and how to help a loved one.50 A fascinating minute presentation. Educating youth early is key.
The most popular mental health event produced by NAMI Miami is our signature Mental Health Awareness Walk at Zoo Miami on May 18th at 8am. Everyone is invited to join us. Last year, over 2,000 participants came together to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health. It is through community events and outreach programs like this that we drive change in mental health awareness.
NAMI Miami-Dade has a helpline (305-665-2540) for individuals or their families seeking assistance. For people in crisis, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides emergency crisis intervention and support to individuals or their families. For more information or support, please visit www.NAMIMiami.org.
Lewis Hines is the chair of NAMI Miami-Dade’s Black and Underserved Community Advisory Committee. Shara Johnson is her outreach coordinator for NAMI Miami-Dade Black and Underserved Community Initiatives.
