Mental Health In The Black Community
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editors' views or any agency, organization, or employer. Based on my experience, research, and knowledge, my statements are in good faith and are only for informational purposes. Please research and follow up on all claims for yourself.
When the breaking news about the shooting at Michigan State University (MSU) came across the screen on Monday, February 13th, my heart sank. Not again and so close to home. Like many, I watched the news unfold throughout the night: three dead and five critically wounded. We must do something about guns in America; equally important, we must do something about mental illness in our community. Several of the last mass shootings, including this recent one at MSU, have been carried out by people experiencing mental breakdowns. Mental illness is pervasive and growing in the Black Community.
The gunman at MSU, Anthony McRae, was a 43-year-old Black man, and according to news reports, he had a history of mental health issues. McRae's father reported that his son had never been diagnosed with a mental health issue, but he noticed a decline in his son's self-care and mental stability since the passing of his mother in 2020. Additionally, some of McRae's family members and authorities in Ewing, New Jersey, where the gunman was born and raised, shared that McRae exhibited some mental issues that should have been addressed long ago. So often, we see things but don't acknowledge them until it's too late. Three people might have been alive today if Anthony had gotten the help he needed. I know that hindsight is 20/20, but the rise of mental health issues in our community is clearly visible, and foresight is needed to begin addressing these issues.
I am not an expert but I know we need to prioritize mental health and understand the consequences of neglecting it. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) states that Black Americans are less likely to receive mental health treatment in comparison to White Americans. According to the NIMH:
"Black people face increased rates of risk factors, including experiences of racism, higher rates of unemployment and financial and food insecurity, disparities in other aspects of health, and limited access to care, all of which result in an increased burden of mental illness in Black communities. Despite this heavy burden, Black people and individuals in other racial and ethnic minority groups have historically had relatively low rates of suicide. But this has been changing recently, especially for Black youth. As of 2018, suicide became the second leading cause of death in Black children aged 10-14, and the third leading cause of death in Black adolescents aged 15-19."Historically Black people are less likely to seek both physical and mental help care. Along with the lack of insurance, mistrust, mistreatment, and misdiagnosis are all barriers in our community getting the help we need. Additionally, the stigma associated with seeking mental health care has been challenging to overcome. Right now, we need to push past all these roadblocks to get the resources and care we need to live productive lives and to protect ourselves and others.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is one government organization aiming to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on communities in America. SAMHSA has resources tailored for Black communities, so visit their website at https://www.samhsa.gov/ SAMHSA also offers a national helpline, which provides 24/7 assistance for individuals experiencing mental health crises. This helpline can also provide information on local treatment facilities and support groups. SAMHSA's National Helpline is free, confidential, and available 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
The City of Grand Rapids lists the following mental health resources on its website:
• Disaster Distress Helpline -- 24/7 emotional support. Call or text 1-800-985-5990
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline -- Dial 988 for Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Pine Rest Psychiatric Urgent Care -- Call: 616.455.9200
• Network180: Mental health services for those on Medicaid or uninsured – Call: 616.336.3909
In conclusion, mental health is a critical issue in our society today. The African American community experiences unique challenges that can impact our mental health. We need to utilize the available resources to improve our mental health and ensure our communities' overall health and safety.
Sophia Brewer (M.L.I.S.) is Collection Development and Serials Librarian, Grand Rapids Community College; Co-President of the Greater Grand Rapids History Council; member of the Grand Rapids Study Club and serves on the Grand Rapids Public Library, Board of Library Commissioners (Elected 2016-2021). She is a former Head of Programs, Grand Rapids Public Library and former Branch Manager, Madison Square Branch, Grand Rapids Public Library Congresswoman
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