Recent studies underline mental health disparities within the Black community; however, with the rise in black mental health experts, the tide could possibly be turning in the war on mental health.
Vickie Smith-Lockhart, who owns and operates Locksmith Counseling and Consulting Services, and Melodi Parker, owner of Mending Broken Pieces Counseling & Consulting Services, are helping to lead the way in fighting mental health issues in the black community.
“It is my goal just to bring awareness to the BIPOC community,” said Parker, speaking to The DeSoto Tribune.
“There is so much we don’t have access to, we being the black community, and so to make these services available, it’s just really a goal of mine.”
According to data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Black individuals are statistically more likely to experience persistent psychological distress.
Sixteen percent (4.8 million) of Black and African American people reported having a mental illness, and 22.4 percent of those (1.1 million people) reported a serious mental illness over the past year.
The treatment gap is evident, with only 25% of Black Americans seeking mental health services, compared to 40% of their white counterparts according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Addressing these disparities involves destigmatizing mental health, increasing culturally competent resources, and promoting accessible and inclusive mental health care.
The call for awareness and action is vital in fostering equitable mental health support for the Black community.
“We go to the doctor if we’re feeling physically sick, why not go to the doctor that can help tap in on the mental issues. We’re not here to judge by no means; we’re here to help guide you, teach you skills to help reach whatever goal for the family unit is established,” said Parker.
“If you see something, have those conversations.”