Black men in the United States face numerous mental health challenges, often exacerbated by systemic inequalities, cultural stigmas, and historical trauma.
The numbers are staggering.
-According to the American Psychological Association (APA), Black men are 20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems, including Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, compared to the general population. Despite this higher prevalence, only about one in three Black men who need mental health care receive it.
– The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that in 2022, only 26.4% of Black men with mental health issues received treatment, compared to 45.4% of white men.
-The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that suicide is the third leading cause of death for Black males ages 15-24.
-A study by the National Library of Medicine shows 56-74% of Black males exposed to traumatic events may have an unmet need for mental health services. And, Black male trauma survivors were significantly less likely to be utilizing mental health services than other sex-ethnic groups.
While there are many factors that contribute to the hesitancy among Black men to seek therapy—such as lack of accessibility, lack of representation, and the stigma surrounding mental health—Dr. Justin K. Dodson, founder of Navigating Courage, Counseling & Consultation LLC, emphasizes the importance of encouraging curiosity about receiving help.
“All too often, I see friends or spouses speak negatively about therapy to men who are struggling. Given the power of words, discouraging help only perpetuates alienation and hinders healing,” Dodson explains. “When a man seeks therapy and starts to change, it’s crucial not to punish him for showing up stronger or more authentically. Supporting men means recognizing and appreciating the positive changes, even if these changes disrupt old dynamics. Praise the progress you see, even if it means he’s becoming less susceptible to manipulation or control.”
Dodson offers several tips for beginning a therapy journey:
Envision Your Future: “Start by considering how you want your life to be different in the future compared to where you are now. Write these thoughts down as they will form the foundation of your therapy goals.”
Research Clinicians: “Look into several therapists and schedule at least three consultation calls. This will help you find someone who feels right, is reputable, and aligns with your goals.”
Check Insurance and Budget: “If you plan to use insurance, confirm that your health plan covers your chosen providers. If you’re paying privately, decide on the investment you’re willing to make in your mental health. Incorporate therapy into your budget without disputing the fee, acknowledging its value.”
Commit to the Process: “Understand that change is a gradual process. Therapy is effective only if you are fully invested. This means completing assignments between sessions, challenging your therapist when necessary, and not giving up before giving it a genuine chance.”
Even if seeking therapy isn’t an option just yet, Dodson advises finding joy and relief amidst tough times through other means. “Connecting with people who uplift and do not harm you and incorporating regular exercise into your routine are crucial steps. Black men, we deserve to thrive, experience life fully, have families, build businesses, spread love, and break unhealthy patterns,” he adds.
Barriers to Mental Health Care
Black men in the United States encounter significant barriers to accessing mental health care, influenced by cultural stigmas, systemic inequalities, and historical trauma.
Below are several barriers that contribute to the low rates of mental health care utilization among Black men.
Cultural Stigma: Mental health issues are often stigmatized within the Black community. Seeking help is sometimes viewed as a sign of weakness, contradicting cultural expectations of stoicism and resilience.
Lack of Black Mental Health Professionals: Representation matters. According to the APA, only about 2% of psychologists are Black. This lack of diversity can make it difficult for Black men to find therapists who understand their specific cultural and social experiences.
Historical Mistrust: Historical abuses, such as the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, have fostered deep mistrust of the medical system among Black Americans. This mistrust extends to mental health services, where fears of being misunderstood or mistreated persist.
Economic Barriers: Economic disparities mean that many Black men lack adequate health insurance or face high co-pays and deductibles, making mental health care financially inaccessible.
Addressing mental health
Taking care of mental health can significantly enhance the quality of life. Black men who seek mental health care can experience reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, leading to better relationships, increased productivity, and a more positive outlook on life. And because mental health is closely linked to physical health, chronic stress and untreated mental health conditions can lead to a host of physical health problems, including hypertension, heart disease, and weakened immune function. So, by taking care of their mental health, Black men can also improve their physical well-being.
Addressing mental health issues can help break the cycle of trauma and stress that often passes from one generation to the next. By prioritizing mental health, Black men can set a healthy example for their children and communities. Additionally, when Black men take care of their mental health, they are better equipped to support their families, engage in their communities, and contribute positively to society.