Cultural Stigma

People with mental illness experience discrimination in all aspects of their lives. It affects their work, relationships, housing, finances, and social supports. For BIPOC with mental health issues, racism compounds that experience of mental health discrimination. Both racism and mental health discrimination negatively impact mental health.

It's well known that BIPOC are less likely to have access to mental health services and receive care. They are less likely to seek care. When and if they do receive care, the care is poor and they are more likely to end services prematurely because of these negative experiences, lack of trust, and relatability to providers.

For many of us, there is also cultural stigma associated with talking about our mental health and seeking the help that we need. I grew up with this stigma, as did my parents, but we are trying to fight it. I hope you will join us.