BREAKING THE CHAINS: OVERCOMING HISTORICAL STIGMAS SURROUNDING MENTAL HEALTH IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY PART 2 – Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation

PART 2: Breaking Chains, Embracing Change: Modern Solutions for Mental Health

In Part One, we embarked on a journey through history, uncovering the deep-seated stigmas surrounding mental health that have weighed on the Black community for generations. The invisible chains of silence and discrimination have left a lasting imprint, but they are not unbreakable. In Part Two, we continue our exploration, shifting our focus to the modern-day impact of these historical stigmas and the actionable steps we can take to confront them head-on.

The Silence Continues: The Modern-Day Impact

While we have made significant progress in acknowledging and addressing mental health issues, the shadow of history still looms large, and the legacy of silence and stigma continues to impact Black people today:

1. Disparities in Access to Care: Despite advances in mental healthcare, racial disparities persist. Black people often have less access to mental health services, including therapy and counseling. This lack of access can lead to untreated mental health conditions and exacerbated psychological distress.

2. Underdiagnosis and Misdiagnosis: Cultural biases and a lack of cultural competence among some mental health professionals can result in underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis of mental health conditions in Black people. This can delay appropriate treatment and perpetuate the belief that mental health issues are not taken seriously within the community.

3. Reluctance to Seek Help: The historical stigma and mistrust surrounding mental health care have left a lasting impact. Many Black people still hesitate to seek help for mental health concerns, fearing discrimination or judgment. This reluctance can prevent early intervention and effective treatment.

4. Silent Suffering: The culture of silence around mental health within the Black community can lead to silent suffering. people may internalize their struggles, believing that they should be able to handle their problems without seeking help. This can exacerbate mental health conditions and contribute to a sense of isolation.

5. Intersectionality and Double Stigma: Black people often face intersectional challenges related to race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status, which can compound the stigma surrounding mental health. These intersectional experiences can result in a double stigma, making it even more difficult to seek support.

6. Community Impact: The mental health of people within a community is interconnected. When mental health struggles remain unaddressed due to stigma, it can have broader community-level implications, affecting families, relationships, and overall well-being.

Breaking the Chains: Overcoming Historical Stigmas

It is essential to recognize that the strength of the Black community lies not only in its history of resilience but also in its ability to confront these historical stigmas head-on. 

Here are 10 practical ways we can work together to break these chains:

1. Educate and Raise Awareness: Learning about the history of mental health stigmas within the Black community is the first step. By understanding the roots of these stigmas, we can dispel misconceptions and encourage open conversations.

2. Share Your Story: When we begin to talk about our own experiences, it helps others feel comfortable doing the same. Sharing personal stories of overcoming mental health challenges can inspire hope and reduce stigma.

3. Use Destigmatizing Language: A person is not defined by their mental health condition. Using language that emphasizes the person rather than the condition helps reduce stigma. For example, say “a person living with depression” rather than “a depressed person.”

4. Cultural Humility: Mental health professionals are increasingly trained in cultural competence and cultural humility to better understand and address the unique challenges faced by Black people. Encourage and advocate for mental health professionals to prioritize understanding these challenges and incorporating cultural competence and humility into their practice.

5. Create Safe Spaces: Establish safe spaces for open dialogue about mental health within communities. These spaces can provide a sense of belonging and support.

6. Support Mental Health Initiatives: Join or support organizations like the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation that are dedicated to destigmatizing mental health in the Black community. These initiatives provide resources, support, and advocacy.
7. Advocating for Access: Advocate for equal access to mental health services and challenge systemic disparities in healthcare delivery.

8. Mentorship and Guidance: Provide mentorship and guidance to the younger generation, teaching them about mental health and the importance of seeking help when needed.

9. Supportive Communities: Build strong, supportive communities where mental health is prioritized. Together, we can create a culture that encourages seeking help without judgment.
10. Seek Professional Help: Encourage those in need to seek professional mental health support. Normalize therapy and counseling as essential tools for mental wellness.

Liberating Minds, Changing Futures

Breaking the chains of historical stigmas surrounding mental health in the Black community is a collective effort, one that requires understanding, compassion, and unwavering support. As we reflect on our history, let us also look to the future with hope, envisioning a world where mental wellness is celebrated, and the silent chains are replaced by a chorus of voices sharing stories of resilience, recovery, and strength. Together, we can redefine the narrative, forging a path toward healing and liberation.

LaToya Rice, MBA
Director, Communications and Marketing
Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation