Creating Safe Spaces for Black Men to discuss Mental Health
Mental illness is a taboo subject that Black men do not discuss in classrooms, sporting events, conferences or at home. Organizing peer and mentorship groups that allow Black men to talk about topics regardless of their sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, socio-economic background or religious affiliation is critical. Meetings should be moderated by professionals with similar experiences to ensure Black men feel comfortable discussing personal issues.
Safe spaces allow therapists to provide educational materials, critical feedback and support services that are not available in most communities. Creating a support network would extend into the local community where men in crisis have someone to talk to during difficult times.
Coordinate with Local Institutions to Promote Programs
Frequently federal and state officials develop and/or fund programs without input from the local community. Teaming up with non-profit organizations, religious institutions, schools and clubs would prevent duplicate programs that fail to properly address specific issues. For instance, programs have to be tailored to the needs of communities struggling with high unemployment, drug abuse or homelessness. Failing to invest in established organizations is counterproductive and costly.
Developing partnerships creates synergy between local, state and national organizations that seek to address mental health. Convincing Black men to attend individual or group sessions requires a coordinated effort that utilizes social media, barbershops, academic and athletic competitions. Local organizations have established relationships with the community, which is essential to addressing mental illness among Black men.
Mental illness is an issue that affects Americans from diverse backgrounds. However, Black men require support from therapists with similar backgrounds because of stress from community, family and peer relationships. Increasing self-help behaviors among Black men should include an understanding of how historical events affect perceptions and attitudes. Increasing funding to community-based programs that understand the barriers Black men encounter is critical to addressing this important issue. It is vital that fathers, sons, uncles, friends, fraternity brothers and cousins work together to support Black men in their darkest hours.
Dr. Larry J. Walker is an educational consultant and mental health advocate. His research examines the impact environmental factors have on the socio-emoitional functioning of minority and underserved communities. Follow him on Twitter @LarryJWalker2
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