Did you know?
U.S. House of Representatives announced July as
National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
Despite measurable advances in health equity, disparities in mental health care persist especially in diverse and/or marginalized communities. When trying to access mental health services, diverse communities have to contend with language barriers; decreased access to care; lower chance of health care coverage; bias and discrimination in treatment settings, in addition to the usual road blocks in an already fragmented health care system.
Many cultures also view mental health treatment as a luxury, considering symptoms a “phase” that will eventually pass. These harmful perceptions of mental illness can further isolate individuals who desperately need help.
Limited access to mental health services and failure to provide culturally competent treatment contribute to poor mental health outcomes including suicide, among ethnic minority populations.
Formed In Faith 