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Mental Health Resources for Black, Indigenous and Other People of Color
While there is no doubt that mental health issues impact everyone in all communities, BIPOC are under-treated in the mental health field. However, there are several growing resources tailored to provide mental health help and support to BIPOC communities.
Why Is Mental Health Important?
Psych Central shares that “research suggests racism is twice as likely to affect a person’s general health as well as their mental health.”
They also share that racial trauma can create sadness, chronic stress, hopelessness and sadness, and suicide. Racial and ethnic groups are more likely to be diagnosed with heart disease, asthma and obesity due to misplaced feelings and emotions.
Common Stigmas Reported:
Information provided by BMC Public Health
- People with mental health issues are dangerous.
- Mental health problems are caused by a lack of faith or demons.
- Mental health conditions are just an excuse for bad behavior.
- Mental health is a private issue and should not be talked about.
How to Find a Culturally Sensitive Therapist
Information provided by Psych Central
- Consider your reasons. Think about the type of issues you want to discuss in therapy. If you’re experiencing certain behaviors — think about the differences in treatment between PTSD and insomnia — a therapist specializing in a specific field may be better suited for you.
- Ask for a referral. Ask your family doctor, if you have one, or friends or family you trust if they have recommendations for a mental health professional.
- Schedule a pre-consultation. Make a list of potential therapists and schedule a phone consultation to understand their communication styles and whether they would be a good fit for your needs. You can use the time to ask questions regarding their experience with racially sensitive issues and their training.
- Check with your health insurance company. Call your insurance provider to find out if coverage is available for mental health services and, if so, how much. Some insurance companies may have a list of in-network therapists they’re willing to cover.
African American Resources
- Black Female Therapists: This platform offers courses, podcasts, and so much more to empower women to discuss their mental health and wellness in a safe space. A therapist directory can help you connect with a therapist near you.
- Black Girls Breathing: A community for Black women to manage stress through a combination of breathwork techniques.
- Black Men Heal: A great tool for finding free mental health services for Black men.
- Black Mental Health Alliance: An organization that connects individuals with nearby and culturally competent therapists. They also provide culturally relevant educational forums and training surrounding Black mental health.
Native American and Alaska Native Resources
- Behavioral Health, Indian Health Service: This hub gives information on behavioral health issues that affect the health of American Indian and Alaska Native individuals, their families, and their communities.
- Center for Native American Youth: Dedicated to creating a strong future for Native American youth, this organization provides access to videos, peer-to-peer activities, and more.
- National Indian Health Board: A nonprofit organization working with all tribal governments to support healthcare issues for Native Americans.
- Tribal Affairs, SAMHSA: Information page on resources available for American Indians and Alaska Natives experiencing historical trauma and other healthcare disparities.
Latinx, Latina, Latino, and Hispanic Resources
- Latinx Therapy: This organization offers courses and workshops, access to a weekly podcast that discusses mental health topics affecting the Latinx, Latinas, and Latinos communities. They also have a directory of mental health therapists available in English and Spanish.
- Therapy for Latinx: Virtual directory to search for therapists for Latinx people.
- Melanin & Mental Health Directory: An organization helping the Black, Latinx, and Hispanic communities connect to free mental health resources and clinicians.
- National Alliance for Hispanic Health: A hub for health information for the Latinx, Latino, and Hispanic communities. Resources include educational articles and a helpline in English and Spanish for help with navigating the healthcare system.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Resources
- Asian Counseling and Referral Service: This organization, based in the state of Washington, provides mental health services and support to Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
- Asian Mental Health Collective: This organization provides information on mental health issues that affect Asian Americans. They also offer a directory of Asian, Pacific Islander, and South Asian American therapists.
- Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI), SAMHSA: Information page on behavioral health issues that affect Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander individuals. They also provide information on resources and federal initiatives.
- Asians Do Therapy: This website is dedicated to breaking the stigma and increasing access to therapy.
LGBTQIA+ People of Color
- Inclusive Therapists: This database focuses on the mental health needs of People of Color, the LGBTQIA+ communities, and people with disabilities.
- LGBTQ Psychotherapists of Color: This organization, based in Northern California, provides a directory of therapists for the LGBTQIA+ communities. They also list organizations that provide online services.
- National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network: A directory of therapists nationwide.
Apps
- Health in Her Hue: This android and iOS app connects Black women and Women of Color with culturally competent health content, healthcare professionals, and community.
- Liberate: A daily meditation app for Black audiences.
- Minds of the Culture: Incorporating therapy and faith-based practices, this iOS app provides informational blogs and videos, a directory, mood journal, a Bible, and much more.
For more mental health resources for people of color, visit Psych Central.
The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of A Second Chance, Inc.
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for this important and inclusive article on mental health resources for Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC). It is essential to recognize and address the unique mental health challenges faced by these communities, and this article does an exceptional job in providing valuable resources and support. The comprehensive list of organizations, hotlines, and online platforms specifically tailored to BIPOC individuals demonstrates a commitment to promoting mental well-being and equity. I applaud the article’s emphasis on culturally sensitive care and the recognition of the systemic factors that impact mental health. This resource-rich article is a valuable contribution towards creating a more inclusive and supportive mental health landscape. Thank you for shining a light on this critical topic!