The Barriers That Affect the African American Community While Accessing Mental Health Services and Their Reluctance in Using Them

Abstract

Abstract

This paper is an exploration of barriers faced by the African American community in the United States concerning accessibility of mental health services. The paper will explore what makes a community reluctant to seek out mental health services. The history of mental health care in regard to the African American community in the United States are explored. Understanding the concept of race-related stress and trauma and how it relates to why this community does not utilize mental health services is important. It is important to explain that remnants of historical trauma of slavery, and the bias that clinicians have in making inaccurate diagnosis of schizophrenia. Barrier, such as stigma and attitudes about mental illness in the African American community. These barriers are explored to give a better understanding of how the mindset of a community can also become a barrier. Examples of how African Americans informally cope with mental health concerns and the “strong Black woman” mindset of what perceived strength will be presented. Suggestions for better utilization of mental health services by the African American community are presented with the viewpoint of clinicians and individuals in the community. Cultural competence will be defined and how important it is in reducing bias in mental health care. Advocacy organization that targets the African American community, so that they may become educated about mental health services.

Keywords: African Americans, community, barriers, race-related stress, stigma, reluctance

Year Manuscript Completed

Fall 2024

Senior Project Advisor

Tricia Jordan, PhD

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Health & Exercise Studies

Document Type

Thesis

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