Mental health affects us all. Inspired by Bebe Moore Campbell’s legacy of addressing the mental health needs of underrepresented groups, July was designated Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month by the U.S. House of Representatives. The month highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) communities. The 2024 theme by Mental Health America focuses on dismantling stigma, fostering generational conversations, and promoting mental health equity.
Addressing Stigma and Cultural Differences in BIPOC Communities
BIPOC individuals often encounter both internal and external judgment when it comes to mental health. Stigma can arise from cultural beliefs, fear of judgment, or limited access to information and resources. It manifests differently across cultures, family values, and community perspectives.
In some communities, mental health struggles may be seen as personal failures or weaknesses, making it harder to seek help. Breaking the silence around mental health is essential for healing. Open, honest conversations that respect cultural beliefs can help dismantle barriers and prioritize mental health.
Generational Differences
Generational differences play a significant role in shaping beliefs about mental health. Each generation’s unique experiences influence their mental health perspectives and provide valuable insights into self-care. While starting conversations about mental health can be challenging, these discussions can bridge generational gaps and foster healing within individuals and communities.
Talking About Your Mental Health
In BIPOC communities, a history of overcoming adversity can make discussing mental health struggles uncomfortable. However, acknowledging the need for help is important. Sharing your mental health journey requires strength and can inspire others to feel understood and take action. Listening to and learning from BIPOC stories enhances awareness and encourages mental health conversations.
Seeking Support
Taking the first steps to address and improve your mental health can be difficult, but it has a profound impact on the community’s overall well-being. Therapy is beneficial for everyone, and finding a provider who shares your background can enhance understanding. Mental health discussions don’t have to be confined to professional settings; they can occur in environments and with people where you feel most comfortable. Changing the settings and manner of these conversations can promote support and healing in BIPOC communities.
Life can be challenging, but it shouldn’t always feel overwhelming or out of control. If it does, Oaks Integrated Care is here to help individuals and their families navigate these difficult times with professionalism and empathy. To learn more about Oaks services or schedule an appointment, take the first step and call our Access Center at 1-800-963-3377.
Resources for Immediate Assistance
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources.
- Phone: 988 (Spanish and English help available)
- TTY users: 1-800-799-4889
- Hours: 24/7
- Website: 988lifeline.org
- Crisis Chat: 988lifeline.org/chat
Crisis Text Line
- A free text-enabled support program that provides crisis-related assistance.
- Text: HELLO to 741741 for English or AYUDA to 741741 for Spanish.
- Hours: 24/7
- Website: crisistextline.org
Call Blackline
- A community resource promoting social justice in crisis interventions for BIPOC communities, providing an avenue to report harmful interactions with police and vigilantes.
- Phone: 1-800-604-5841
- Website: callblackline.com
Project LETS
- Offers a Trans Lifeline to support individuals in or approaching a crisis without police involvement.
- Phone: 877-565-8860
- Website: projectlets.org/crisis-support
Additional Trusted Resources
Builds awareness among intersectional youth and young adults of color and their caregivers about mental health, empowering them to seek help and manage mental health, and influencing systems to address their needs.
Assists first-generation Latine professionals in embracing their bicultural identity to boost confidence, deepen connections, and enhance individual and professional fulfillment.
Simplifies and ensures safety in finding therapists, focusing on the needs of BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ communities. The mission prioritizes voices and expressions from neurodivergent and disabled communities of color.
A digital hub and offline network offering the most current and accessible information and guidance for the undocumented immigrant community.
