Jacksonville, Florida – Asking for help can be difficult, especially in Black and African American communities. Research shows that many Black adults, especially older generations, view mental health conditions as a personal weakness.
Related: Demand for more accessible mental health resources grows in Black communities
Nyasha Poitier, a certified mental health counselor and owner of The Art of Healing Jacksonville, said this stems from history.
“African-Americans have had a lot of perseverance and resilience, and I think African-Americans themselves have relied on that,” Poitier said.
Data shows that adults in the Black community are 20% more likely to experience serious mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
However, only 25% of African Americans seek mental health treatment, compared to 40% of white Americans.
“I do a lot of work in the African American community, and over the last 10 years or so I've seen a lack of awareness of what mental health is and how they don't feel safe or trustworthy. It's kind of a recurring theme of not feeling able to do it. We've been through so much bias, racism, and systemic issues. ,” Poitier said.
Only a small percentage of mental health workers nationally identify as Black.
She also said representation is important for Black people seeking counseling.
Poitier said it's important for her to represent herself as a young student working towards getting her license.
She said mentorship from someone who looked like her was the final push to become a certified mental health counselor.
Despite her experience, she encourages people not to be deterred from working in this field or seeking help.
Instead, ask questions.
“Have I ever worked with someone who looks like me? What is their cultural competency training? What does that look like?” Poitier said.
It's all about bridging the gap between mental health and the African American community.
Click here to visit The Art of Healing Jacksonville website.
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