Each July, Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month highlights the importance of addressing mental health disparities in diverse communities. The goal is to create awareness about mental health challenges and reduce the stigma often associated with seeking support.
Honoring Bebe Moore Campbell’s Legacy
Bebe Moore Campbell, a celebrated author, journalist, teacher and mental health advocate, worked tirelessly to bring attention to the mental health needs of underrepresented communities. Her efforts laid the foundation for recognizing the unique challenges faced by racial and ethnic minority groups, now often referred to as BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month.
Mental Health Disparities in Minority Communities
Research indicates that minority groups, including racial and sexual minorities, experience higher rates of:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Suicidal tendencies
Despite these elevated risks, many individuals in these communities face barriers to accessing mental health care, such as:
- Language and cultural differences
- Financial constraints or lack of insurance
- Fear of legal consequences (e.g., deportation)
- Limited time due to demanding work schedules
The Impact on Minority Youth
Mental health disparities significantly affect youth, particularly within minority communities. Research has shown that:
- Hispanic high school girls are 40% more likely than their white peers to attempt suicide.
- African American girls are 70% more likely to attempt suicide than white girls.
- American Indian/Alaska Native adolescent females have suicide attempt rates nearly three times higher than their white counterparts.
Stigma surrounding mental health, especially within older generations, often prevents young people from receiving support. Monarch’s therapists work to break down these barriers, encouraging open conversations and providing culturally sensitive care.
Monarch’s Commitment to Breaking Barriers
Monarch is dedicated to bridging the gap in mental health care access through programs that prioritize affordability, accessibility and community support. Monarch experts, including therapists and psychiatrists, work to ensure individuals can receive timely, high-quality care.
- Open Access Program: This program allows individuals to begin therapy without waiting weeks or months for an appointment.
- Community-Based Services: Monarch provides services like in-home therapy, intensive in-home therapy, and Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) to bring care directly to individuals in need.
- Youth Crisis Support: At facilities like the SECU Youth Crisis Center, teams address the mental health needs of children and adolescents in crisis, reducing barriers like transportation and connecting families to critical resources.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
At Monarch, we believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, effective mental health care. By working together to reduce stigma and increase awareness, we can create a healthier future for all.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, Monarch is here to help. Contact Monarch at (866) 272-7826 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., or click here to view our services. For 24/7 assistance, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.