By Alondra Torres, ROSES intern
Mental health impacts us all. We all have mental health, whether we face challenges is what differs from individual to individual. More than 1 in 5 adults have a mental illness. Although it is treatable and preventable, not everyone has the same access to care and resources. July has been designated as Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. For many people in racial and ethnic minority groups, it may be difficult to get the necessary mental health support. While barriers such as cost or lack of adequate health insurance may exist, there are other barriers present that may go unrecognized. For many people who are part of racial or ethnic minorities, finding a mental healthcare provider from the same ethnic or racial group who can understand one's experiences can be difficult. Different cultures also have different perceptions of mental health, which can stigmatize mental health for individuals.
Recognizing the challenges that minorities face with mental health care is essential in raising awareness. When speaking about mental health, it is important to use non-stigmatizing language. Having knowledge of resources for mental health and coping skills to share with family and friends when necessary can be helpful. It is also important to learn about implicit bias and microaggressions. Implicit bias refers to a favorable set of behaviors, actions and attitudes towards one group over others. Microaggressions are actions or statements, direct or indirect, intentional or unintentional, that discriminate against members of marginalized groups. In learning about these forms of discriminations and avoiding them, we can help to improve the mental health of members of minority groups. This July, let’s all be mindful and advocate for minority mental health.
Sources:
Comments