NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore’s Post

Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) populations face unique systemic challenges when it comes to managing their mental health. July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness month, an opportunity to elevate the unique systemic challenges that Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) populations face when it comes to managing their mental health. Generational and historical trauma and displacement within a cycle of constant systemic racism and oppression are seemingly insurmountable barriers to thriving in life. However, according to Mental Health America, “...culture, community, and connection are pillars that support and uplift BIPOC individuals in the face of oppression and systemic racism.” 💡 Read more stories here! https://lnkd.in/grzzs8_8 This work is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. #NIFAimpacts

Strive for equal access to care in our fight against eating disorders. - Black teenagers are 50% more likely to exhibit bulimic behavior than their white peers. - Black women are more likely to report binge eating disorder than white women. - Eating disorders are a leading cause of death among people with mental illnesses, with Black individuals being less likely to receive adequate treatment. Some Community Resources: - ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders) A free peer support community that runs BIPoC focused ED support groups. www.anad.org - Therapy for Black Girls Connects Black women and girls with culturally competent therapists who can provide support for various mental health issues, including eating disorders. https://lnkd.in/gQdVPYK Every voice deserves to be heard, every journey deserves support. Let's empower, uplift, and advocate for inclusive healing

#BlackMentalHealthMatters! Support the mental well-being of Black communities. Let’s breakdown the barriers Black people face when trying to get mental health support. Addressing and reducing barriers to treatment are the first steps to building more equitable health systems. Everyone deserves access to respectful and culturally appropriate care. Together, we can improve access to mental health care for people from racial and ethnic minority groups. Learn more at https://buff.ly/3xEOCmN #MentalHealthMatters #MHAM2024 #LoveYourselfTakeCareofYourself

In this thought-provoking lecture, Dr. Doss will address critical issue of mental health stigma surrounding black males highlighting the unique challenges and barriers that black males face when seeking help for mental health issues, including cultural stigma, lack of access to culturally competent care, and mistrust of the healthcare system. Dr. Doss will emphasize the severe consequences of untreated mental health issues, including high rates of suicide, substance abuse, and incarceration among black males. I will argue that this is a public health crisis that demands urgent attention and action from all members of society.

A Manifesto for Mental Health! 📣 With poor mental health on the rise, this General Election is a pivotal moment for mental health. We want all candidates to commit to building #AMentallyHealthierNation: https://lnkd.in/eWTqi3SQ Follow: Centre for Mental Health & ask your local candidates to commit to making mental health a top priority! ♿️ image description for accessibility: Black poster with the following text in white and in white boxes: This General Election, ask your candidates to commit to building A MENTALLY HEALTHIER NATION, Prevention: Address the causes of mental ill health); Equality: Eradicate mental health inequalities; Support: Ensure timely access to local services. Join us in demanding a fairer and healthier future for us all.

Addressing the Interplay Between Violence and Mental Health in the USA Recent studies have shed light on the profound impact that violence has on mental health, particularly within vulnerable communities. As we strive for a healthier and more equitable society, understanding these dynamics is crucial. 🔍 Children and Adolescents: Exposure to violence in neighborhoods can drastically affect brain development in young people. Research highlights changes in the cerebral cortex, which is vital for behavior, cognition, and emotion. Such alterations can lead to long-term mental health challenges (NIH NIMH) (American Psychological Association). 🔍 Gun Violence and Suicide Risk: For Black Americans, the correlation between gun violence and suicidal ideation is alarming. Those exposed to gun violence, whether personally or through their community, face heightened risks of suicide. Addressing this issue requires not only reducing violence but also ensuring accessible mental health care free from stigma and cultural barriers (The Trace). 🔍 Mental Illness and Violence: The relationship between mental illness and violence is complex. While there can be associations, it's essential to approach this topic with nuance and compassion, recognizing the role of effective treatment and destigmatization (American Psychological Association). As we continue to explore these connections, the goal must be to implement policies and interventions that protect mental health and support those affected by violence. By doing so, we can pave the way for a safer and healthier future for all. #MentalHealth #ViolencePrevention #PublicHealth #CommunityCare #BlackMentalHealth

June is Men's Health Awareness Month! This month, we're shining a light on the importance of mental health, especially for Black men. Black men face unique challenges when it comes to mental wellness, from stigma and lack of culturally competent care to systemic barriers. It's time to break the silence, support one another, and promote healing within our community. In communities like Oakland, Black men face unique challenges that can contribute to higher rates of mental health issues. By raising awareness, providing support, and fostering open discussions, we can work towards breaking down the barriers that prevent Black men from seeking help and accessing the resources they need to thrive. Join us in raising awareness and making a difference. Read our latest blog post on Black men's mental health to learn more about these challenges and how we can overcome them together. Share this post and spread the word! Your mental health matters. Let's ensure Black men receive the support they deserve. 👉 Read more: Men's Health Awareness Month: Focusing on Black Men's Mental Health https://lnkd.in/gzWrYPTD #MensHealthMonth #MentalHealthAwareness #BlackMenSpeak #BreakTheStigma #SupportBlackMen

🖤 Black Mental Health Matters 🖤 Mental health struggles impact us all, but access to care isn’t equal. In Black communities, there are unique barriers that make it harder for many to get the support they need. Here are some important stats: 📊 33% of Black adults with mental illness receive treatment, compared to 50% of white adults. 📊 5.6% of Black Americans are uninsured, contributing to lack of mental health care access. 📊 88% of Black individuals report significant barriers like stigma, cultural mistrust, and lack of providers who understand their experiences. 📊 Despite being 20% more likely to experience serious mental health issues like depression and anxiety, Black Americans are less likely to receive adequate care. Why does this matter? Because mental health IS health, and no one should be left behind. 🌱 Together, we can break the stigma. We need more culturally competent mental health professionals, affordable access to care, and safe spaces to heal. Huge shoutout to community partners like @FreeHearts and @BMHVillage for the incredible work they’re doing to support mental health in our communities. Their dedication to providing resources and safe spaces is making a real difference. If you or someone you know needs support, don’t hesitate to reach out. You are not alone. ✨ #BlackMentalHealthMatters #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthAwareness #CulturallyCompetentCare #FreeHearts #BlackMentalHealthVillage #MentalHealthIsHealth

July is #MinorityMentalHealthMonth. It is essential to recognize the unique challenges and barriers that minority communities face when it comes to mental health. This month serves as a reminder to prioritize mental well-being within diverse populations and to address the disparities in access to mental health resources. Minority communities, including but not limited to black, Hispanic, Asian, and Indigenous populations, often experience higher rates of mental health conditions due to various factors such as systemic inequalities, discrimination, cultural stigma, and a lack of culturally competent care. By raising awareness and promoting mental health education and resources within minority communities, we can work towards breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and improving access to quality care for all individuals. Let us take this month as an opportunity to advocate for equitable mental health support and to create a more inclusive and understanding society for everyone.

N.A.H.S.E Greater Boston Chapter observes and recognizes Mental Health Awareness month. This observance serves as a powerful reminder of the critical importance of mental health and well-being in our lives and communities. National Association of Health Services Executives (N.A.H.S.E.) supports the national movement dedicated to eradicating stigma, extending support, fostering public education, and advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. - nearly 51.5 million individuals - experience mental illness each year. Additionally, 17% of youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder, with half of all lifetime cases of mental illness beginning by age 14 and 75% by age 24. For Black Americans, the prevalence of mental health conditions is often compounded by systemic barriers to accessing care. Despite similar rates of mental illness compared to the general population, Black Americans are less likely to receive mental health treatment. Only one in three Black adults who need mental health care receives it, compared to 50.5% of white adults. For more information, visit https://lnkd.in/ebKcuDDq. #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #maternalmentalhealth #mensmentalhealth #TakeAMentalHealthMoment #mentalhealthmonth