OUR VOICE COUNTS
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has the goal of raising awareness about mental health care in underrepresented communities. Our culture, beliefs, sexual identity, values, race and language all affect how we perceive and experience mental health conditions. In fact, cultural differences can influence what treatments, coping mechanisms and supports work for us. It is essential for culture and identity to be a part of the conversation about mental health care.
In 2008, July was designated as the Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month by the U.S. House of Representatives in honor of the leading African American novelist and journalist who sought to eliminate stigma among diverse communities.
In the wake of both the pandemic and racial violence, there is the potential for an increase in the number of people impacted by mental health conditions. NAMI’s Statement on Racism emphasizes that the effect of racism and racial trauma on mental health is real. While anyone can experience the challenges of mental illness, regardless of their background, facing racial discrimination can significantly worsen symptoms. Additionally, background and identity can make access to mental health treatment much more difficult. Racism is a public health crisis, and we stand with all the families, friends and communities who have lost loved ones and experienced trauma.
“We want to raise awareness about disparities in the mental health system—and what we can do about them,” said Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., CEO of NAMI. “Mental health conditions don’t discriminate, and neither should our mental health system. We are calling for systematic change and improved access to culturally competent care, so no one feels alone in their journey.”
The NAMI community is here to help and provide resources. Together, we can help people from underrepresented populations get the mental health care they need.
Please join NAMI-Wood River Valley (NAMI-WRV) in these important conversations for Mental Health Awareness Month by going to NAMIWRV.org/espanol for more information on resources to help our community.