Washington(DC News Now) — According to the American Psychiatric Association, only one in three black adults with mental illness receives treatment.
Life and mental health coach Cheryl Bridges told DC News Now that other research shows that more than 60% of African-Americans believe that mental health conditions are a sign of weakness.
Bridges believes the lingering effects of slavery, as well as religion and beliefs, may be reasons why Black people are hesitant to seek mental health treatment.
“In our community, faith and prayer are sometimes seen as the ultimate answer to everything, and while I don’t disagree with that, [that]There’s also the other element that, because we’re human beings, African Americans have very unique stressors, so we need professional help,” Bridges said.
“The microaggressions faced in the workplace and the often-needed lack of mental health care services are unique stressors that sometimes require the management of other resources,” she added.
Bridges said celebrities like former First Lady Michelle Obama and Taraji P. Henson have helped minimize the stigma by putting the spotlight on mental health, which she said helps people see being vulnerable about their emotions as a sign of strength, not weakness.
Bridges suggests TherapyForblackMen.org and TherapyForBlackGirls.com As two websites that people can use as mental health resources. She also said it was important demand Reasons why you may need mental health support include:
- S – Self-care: Asking for help is an act of prioritizing your health.
- E – Empowerment: It empowers you to take control of your mental health journey.
- E – EducationEducation provides an opportunity to learn more about one’s own condition.
- K – Kindness: It’s kindness to yourself.
