In African American communities, seeking help for mental health issues can be challenging, especially among older generations who may view mental health conditions as a personal weakness. Nyasha Poitier, a licensed mental health counselor and owner of The Art of Healing Jacksonville, explains that this perception stems from a history of perseverance and resilience among African Americans. Despite being 20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems like depression or anxiety, many individuals in the Black community may not seek treatment when needed.
Poitier notes that only 25% of African Americans seek mental health treatment, compared to 40% of white Americans, due to a lack of awareness about mental health and trust issues with providers. She highlights the prejudice, racism, and systemic issues that contribute to this reluctance and notes the limited representation of Black mental health workers nationwide. However, she encourages individuals not to be discouraged from pursuing a career in the mental health field or seeking help for themselves.
She emphasizes the importance of asking questions to providers about their experience with individuals from diverse backgrounds and their cultural competence training. By bridging the gap between mental health and African American communities, more individuals can access the support they need to prioritize their mental wellbeing. To learn more about The Art of Healing Jacksonville, you can visit their website for additional information.
