Beliefs about mental illness are formed through experience, cultural traditions, and formal education.
Stories fromfriendsand family also play a role.
These types of beliefs reinforce the idea that mental illness is shameful.
Verywell / Laura Porter
It is not normalized in the way that it should be.
People often view it as a personal and/or moral defect.
The stress may increase a persons risk of mental illness.
Some experiences may even be traumatizing.
Financial problems tend to increase the chances of an individual will experience serious psychological distress.
This may be in part due to thedisparities in mental health treatment.
Black individuals often lack access to culturally competent care.
As a result, the treatment they receive is often poorer.
Black individuals are also more likely to be misdiagnosed by treatment providers.
This can fuel the distrust toward mental health professionals as a misdiagnosis can lead to poor treatment outcomes.
This contributes to the stigma, hostility, and lack of willingness to voluntarily seek care.
Individuals and families in the Black community are also more likely to hide the illness.
Studies that specifically examine the beliefs of Black women are scarce.
But not all studies indicate a high degree of stigma among Black women.
Many of the women in the study identified a variety of positive coping skills.
Treatment could help them live happier, more fulfilling lives.
Its also important for mental health treatment providers to be equipped to care for individuals in the Black community.
Culturally competent therapists and psychiatrists could help ease mistrust and provide better care.
The publication of some recent books may help reduce the mental health stigma among African Americans.
Other celebrities have used their platforms for awareness-raising and tackling some of the issues.
All of these things are contributing to reducing stigma among African Americans.
You might start by talking to your doctor about treatment options.
If you suspect a loved one is experiencing a mental health issue, talk to them.
Open conversations about mental health can help break down the stigma and encourage more people to seek help.
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