During National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s important to acknowledge the increasing need for mental health support for minorities. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health reported suicide as the second leading cause of death for American Indian / Alaska Natives (ages 10 – 34) in 2017. Compared to the white population, the overall death rate from suicide for American Indian / Alaska Native adults is about 20% higher.
According to Mental Health America (MHA), more than ten million adults have serious thoughts of suicide each year. Over 13% of youth ages 12-17 experience a Major Depressive Episode that in some instances leaves them severely impaired.
During a global pandemic stress and feelings of anxiety may become more pronounced. Some people across racial and ethnic groups may respond more strongly during these times of crisis. It’s important for everyone to reach out for help when they feel overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, especially during these difficult times.
Mental Health Care for Minorities
Anyone can experience mental health challenges. Individuals from cultural and ethnic minorities, however, are less likely to get adequate mental health care. Diagnosis and treatment are less likely to be received by those who experience communication barriers or a lack of cultural competency from behavioral health professionals. Inability to access mental health care, and the costs of mental health care and insurance, also prevents people from seeking help.
MHA provides free and confidential online self-help screening and decision making tools to help start the conversation with a health care provider or a loved one about your mental health. While these tools don’t provide a diagnosis, the information provided may help you find the provider suited for you.
BetterHelp provides access to counseling services online. While these services are not free of charge, the cost is low and there isn’t a requirement for insurance.
The initial matching quiz can be taken in whatever language your internet browser is set to. Religion and Spirituality are taken into account when being matched with a therapist or counselor. Being unable to appropriately communicate with your health care provider is a serious issue for those who don’t speak English. BetterHelp has professionals who speak many different languages, not just English.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text the Crisis Text Line: Text “DESERVE” TO 741-741.
Daily Actions That Can Boost Your Mental Health
There are many small habits that can bring great rewards to your mental health. Keeping your bedroom temperature between 60 – 67 degrees Fahrenheit is optimal for a good night’s rest. Starting the day with a cup of coffee can help lower depression. Green tea is a great alternative if you’re not a coffee drinker.
Keeping a journal and writing daily entries can have a positive impact on your mindset. For example, recording three things that made you grateful and three things you accomplished in a day can boost your mood nearly instantly.
Spending time with a pet, a friend’s pet, or a shelter animal can boost your mood. Time with animals lowers cortisol, the stress hormone, and increases oxytocin, which helps you feel happy. Going on a thirty-minute walk outdoors can increase energy levels, reduce depression, and enhance well-being for people and animals.
Share your support and helpful information with others using Twitter: #MinorityMentalHealth, #NotAlone, and #MMHAM on social media.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source: “Minority Mental Health Awareness Month” by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) | Photo
