Do you ever find yourself getting lost in your own thoughts? All that is stressful seems to come to your mind so much that you have difficulty functioning. You can’t eat. You can’t sleep. Your work life affected. If this happens consistently this is the time when asking for help may be necessary. June is National Minority Mental Health Month. Many minorities still have a stigma within communities as it relates to mental health. Many opportunities for great services are not always available to minority groups. But the time is now for a change.
Some studies have shown that racial and ethnic minority groups are less likely to receive mental health care. One of the reasons is a lack of representation. Many times, when you go to the doctor, you may not be treated by someone who looks like you. When someone looks like you, they are familiar with your community and some of the struggles that take place. Other reasons include the quality of these services. Many profess ionals use less evidence-based studies when working with minority groups due to lack of research and awareness of these disparities.
As an Occupational Therapist, over the years I have worked with people dealing with mental illness. But something I have seen is more people dealing with this after the pandemic when there was increased isolation. The numbers in regard to treatment don’t lie.
- Blacks and Hispanic populations have lower rates of depression than White Americans, but their symptoms are present much longer.
- Black people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorders are incarcerated more than other racial groups rather than being treated for their condition.
- Asian Americans are least likely to seek mental health services.
- Many refugees experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
- In 2020, Suicide was the third leading cause of death for Black people age 15-24.
- People representing the LGBTQ+ community are 2x more likely to experience mental health disorders compared to other groups.
- Women are often prescribed psychotropic medications more than men.
For this month let’s spread awareness to the disparities in mental health care. Care should be provided equally amongst all groups. Also, if you see a family or friend dealing with mental illness, try to be there for them when they need you. Unfortunately, you can’t force them into seeking help but you can encourage it.