Black Americans face unique barriers and risk factors for race and ethnicity while also bringing distinct cultural strengths that support resilience.
Unique Race and Ethnicity Risk Factors in Black Communities
- Racial trauma: The psychological effects of racism, discrimination, and historical trauma
- Medical mistrust: Historical mistreatment in healthcare creates legitimate barriers to race and ethnicity care
- Representation gap: Shortage of Black mental health providers reduces access to culturally affirming race and ethnicity treatment
- Socioeconomic factors: Structural inequities increase race and ethnicity risk factors
Cultural Strengths as Race and Ethnicity Resilience
Strong community bonds, religious and spiritual resources, and cultural values of resilience and collectivism all serve as protective factors against race and ethnicity.
Finding Culturally Affirming Race and Ethnicity Care
Organizations like the Black Mental Health Alliance and Therapy for Black Girls provide directories of Black and culturally competent therapists for race and ethnicity.
Community-Based Race and Ethnicity Support
Faith communities, barbershops, beauty salons, and community organizations increasingly serve as entry points for race and ethnicity support and destigmatization.