Racism is a Murderer. All people of color may experience the underbelly of racial oppression, however racism is said to be a significant factor in exacerbating emotional debilitation in Black males. Black males are at greater risks for poor mental health outcomes resulting from racial oppression. Rage, anger, frustration, bitterness, resentment, grief, and despair can all occur over time. These emotions can increase suicidal ideation and are thought to be precursors to mood related illnesses such as depression[vi].
Risk of Suicide. Another reason for the increasing rate in completed suicide within this group is because Black men are exposed to high rates of every social risk factor of depression and suicide[vii]. This includes poverty, unemployment, poor education opportunities, medical disease, lack of health care, and systematic oppression. Moreover, current incarceration and imprisonment increase risk of suicide. Jennifer Gonnerman reported in The New Yorker that Kalief Browder attempted to kill himself several times while in confinement and once following his release from prison before finally taking his life.
No One Understands. Despite climbing rates in mental health concerns fueled by increases in fatal self-harm, the majority of Black males do not receive adequate treatment[viii]. Furthermore, these individuals are more likely to be misdiagnosed or disproportionately pathologized when seeking treatment. Some have mentioned that current criteria of depression and anxiety do not match the culturally nuanced manner in which mental health affects Black males[ix]. In my experience as a Clinical Psychologist I have found that men are less likely to report frequent crying or sadness and more often report feeling stressed, angry, or irritable. The failure of mental health practitioners to accurately diagnose depression no doubt contributes to reluctance among these individuals to seek treatment.
There Is Hope. Despite the challenges listed above, as a community we can all play a role in addressing the mental health crisis gripping Black males. Social support remains among the most important factors shielding Black men from suicidal behavior[x]. African-American males who report close family ties, strong romantic relationships and close friendships are less likely to consider suicide. Additionally, religious conviction and participation in religious activities can also assist in curbing or preventing poor mental health[xi]. Reaching out and being responsive, attentive, and present for the Black males in your life may provide assistance. Most importantly, no one has to be alone in helping friends and loved ones through difficult times. If you are someone you know is struggling, recommending they seek mental health treatment might inspire him to seek treatment. Such feedback can be a life saver.
Resource: Fact Sheet: Suicide among Racial/Ethnic Populations in the U.S.: Blacks, Suicide Prevention Resource Center, 2013
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