As we celebrate Black History Month, it is crucial to recognize and address the unique challenges faced by the Black community, especially concerning mental health. Just as we advocated for LGBTQ+ youth during Pride month, it is equally essential to shed light on the disparities in mental health care accessibility within the Black community.
The Mental Health Struggles Faced by the Black Community:
The statistics surrounding mental health within the Black community are concerning. Systemic racism, discrimination, and historical trauma contribute to increased rates of mental health struggles among Black individuals. According to the Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM), these challenges necessitate a focused effort to remove barriers and promote healing.
Barriers to Mental Health Care:
- Stigma and Discrimination: Black individuals often face stigma and discrimination when seeking mental health care, leading to a reluctance to seek help.
- Lack of Culturally Competent Resources: Access to culturally competent mental health resources is limited, exacerbating the difficulty in finding supportive and understanding care.
- Historical Trauma: The historical trauma experienced by the Black community continues to impact mental health, requiring specialized approaches for healing.
BEAM's Mission and Healing Justice Framework:
The Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM) is actively working to address these issues. Their mission is to remove barriers to emotional health care and healing through education, training, advocacy, and the creative arts. BEAM centers its work around a healing justice framework, developed by Cara Page and the Kindred Healing Justice Collective, aiming to holistically respond to generational trauma and violence. Learn more about BEAM here.
Our Commitment to Change:
Here at Notes2Pass, we believe that everyone deserves access to mental health care, regardless of their background. To support this cause, we are proud to announce that 10% of all sales this Black History Month will be donated to BEAM. By contributing to BEAM's mission, we hope to help break down the barriers that hinder Black individuals from accessing the mental health support they deserve.
To support BEAM this month, shop our cards. Once you add over 5 cards to your cart, and automatic discount will be applied saving you $1/card in your cart.
Resources for Black Mental Health:
In addition to supporting BEAM, it's crucial to be aware of other resources available:
- BlackLine (1-800-604-5841): A peer support space with an LGBTQ+ Black femme lens, providing counseling and affirmation divested from the police.
- National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988): Offering confidential support to those in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, operating 24/7 with phone and text capability.
- NAMI Helpline (1-800-950-6264): A free, nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals, and support to those living with a mental health condition and their families.
This Black History Month, let us stand together to break down barriers, increase access to mental health care, and contribute to the well-being of the Black community. Your support matters, and together we can make a difference in the journey towards mental health equity.