Breaking the Mental Health Stigma

Breaking the Stigma

Did you know that fewer than three national studies have focused on mental health treatments for Youth and Young Adults of Color with major disorders like depression and anxiety? This lack of research means we’re missing crucial information to develop effective, culturally relevant treatments. Stigma, reliance on non-clinical supports, and concerns about cultural relevance often prevent Youth of Color from seeking the care they need. These barriers can lead to harmful myths surrounding mental health. It’s time to change this narrative and ensure our Youth feel supported and understood. As part of our commitment to supporting Youth of Color, we provide valuable resources such as our curated journal prompts. These prompts are tools designed to encourage introspection and exploration of cultural identity, resilience, and personal growth.

Myth 1

My ancestors and family had it worse, so I don’t have the right to feel like I do.

You may feel guilty if you are struggling with your mental health because your family made sacrifices in order for you to have what you have. You may feel like you don’t have the right to “complain” because you feel like your circumstances are nothing compared to the levels of racism, displacement, and violence your ancestors went through. However, two things can be true at once. You can feel gratitude for your ancestors/family and all they have done for you. You are also allowed to have and express your own feelings about what you are going through in the present. By seeking and accepting help, you can actually play a part in healing the generational trauma that exists within your family lineage. In this way, you are both working to heal yourself and the trauma your ancestors went through.

Myth 2

Mental Illness is a white people problem.

Just like we all have physical health and sometimes get sick, we all have mental health and can experience mental health conditions. Most Youth of Color sampled in our survey (ranging from approximately 70%-80%) report experiencing at least mild symptoms associated with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Further, when we take a deeper dive, Native American Youth (trailed closely byYouth who identify as Multiracial) by far appear to be experiencing the greatest challenges with the severity of symptoms, as they are the least likely to report experiencing no symptoms of anxiety (16%). Psychosocial barriers, such as stigmatized attitudes toward depression treatment, reliance on non-clinical faith-based supports and concerns about the lack of cultural relevance of treatment often play a role in the lack of treatment utilization

Myth 3

If you’re struggling, you aren’t praying enough.

Struggling with your mental health doesn't mean you're being spiritually tested or punished for your sins. Everyone needs support sometimes, and seeking help is an act of humility. Spiritual support can take many forms, including people and resources placed in your path to aid your healing. Working with a mental health professional can complement other sources of spiritual or emotional support. Many therapists are also spiritually-minded, and you might find one who shares your religious beliefs. Connecting with someone who understands the importance of faith in your life can make your healing journey more personal and effective.

Myth 4

I can’t do anything for a person with a mental health issue.

Friends and loved ones can make a big difference. In YYAC, 30% reported needing treatment but hadn't received it. One of Dr. Alfiee’s favorite gems is a practice she utilizes; “ resist the urge to fix. If someone you love and care for is struggling with a mental health problem, our job is not to fix them. Our job is to be available for them, and to be a strong listening ear.” If you really want to do something powerful for them, which you can do, consider the following helpful ideas: 1. Practice active listening. Don't interrupt. Don't try to fix it for them. 2.Let that person know and reassure them that you're going to listen and that you're going to act on something that they ask you to act on if they ask for your help. 3. Be patient with the person. 4. Learning and sharing facts about mental health, especially if you hear something that isn't true 5. Helping them access mental health services 6. Refusing to define them by their diagnosis or using labels such as "crazy", instead use person-first language

Myth 5

Children don’t experience mental health issues.

Even very young children may show early warning signs of mental health concerns. These mental health conditions are often clinically diagnosable and can be a product of the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors. Only 22.3% of youth who need mental health treatment received it. 20.7% of youth who thought they needed mental health treatment didn’t receive it. Multiracial youth were significantly less likely than Latino/e youth to receive treatment; no other significant differences by race/ ethnicity.

Myth 6

Therapy and self help are a waste of time. Why bother when you can just take a pill.

Treatment for mental health conditions vary depending on the individual and could include medication, therapy, or both. AAKOMA’s research suggests that culturally relevant support systems, (like family, social groups, faith communities, friends, etc) are important sources of support for Young People of Color dealing with mental health concerns.

Myth 7

Race shouldn’t be a factor in choosing a therapist.

For many Youth of Color, having a culturally responsive therapist who understands their cultural background can greatly improve their treatment experience. Cultural competence and responsiveness in therapy ensure that the unique experiences and challenges faced by Youth of Color are acknowledged and addressed, leading to better outcomes. In our past Free Therapy Program, we’re proud of our efforts to match culturally responsive, licensed mental health providers with young People of Color. Thanks to the generous support of Flamingo/Harry’s Shave Club, to date, AAKOMA has provided 1,283 hours of FREE virtual therapy to intersectional Black/African American Youth and Young Adults, as well as other young People of Color, many of whom had never accessed mental health support before.

Myth 8

Experiencing racism is not a factor in the mental health of Youth of Color.

Exposure to racial trauma is a significant stressor that negatively impacts the mental health of Youth of Color. In fact, according to our study, 42.1% of Youth and Young Adults of Color were exposed to at least one source of racial trauma. Chronic exposure to racism can increase levels of anxiety, depression, and trauma. Recognizing and addressing the effects of racism is essential for effective mental health care.

Myth 9

Rates of suicide attempts are similar for teens of all races and ethnicities.

In our SOMHYYOC research, 26.8% of all youth reported suicidal ideation in the past year. No differences across racial groups. While females are more likely to report suicide ideation,18% of youth have made one suicide attempt. Black youth are significantly more likely to make a suicide attempt compared to Latino/e, AAPI and Native American youth. 57.7% of youth who identified as nonbinary Youth of Color reported suicidal ideation in the prior year, compared to 27.2% of females and 17.7% of males.