Mental Wellness Resources for Black Students
During the global pandemic, many college students are struggling with depression and anxiety. Finding resources can sometimes be challenging. As we honor Black History Month, we are focusing on the mental wellness needs of the BIPOC community. Research shows that Black adults are 20 percent more likely to experience mental health issues than other populations due to racism, inequality, lack of access to resources, and systemic barriers in healthcare. (https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/cultural-competency/education/mental-health-facts) (NAMI)
Historically, many black communities have displayed a great amount of resiliency despite significant healthcare inequities. The COVID-19 pandemic has proven that despite this resiliency, change is urgent and mandatory in order for Black communities to maintain safety and wellness. FEMA administrator Ceanne Criswell states, “For too long, African American communities have endured the burden of health disparities, as evidenced by the current pandemic.” Access to affordable and culturally appropriate services is an ongoing barrier in black communities. In recent years, resources have emerged to begin the process of increasing access and awareness.
Below are some of the resources available including mental health providers, informational content, as well as websites that help individuals find additional resources.
Black Mental Health and Wellness Resources:
- African American Mental Health - https://www.nami.org/Support-Education/Diverse-Communities/African-American-Mental-Health
- Melanin and Mental Health - https://www.melaninandmentalhealth.com/
- Black Therapists Rock - https://www.blacktherapistsrock.com/
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America - https://adaa.org/african-americans
- African American Wellness Project - www.aawellnessproject.org
- Black Health Matters - www.BlackHealthMatters.com
- Black Emotional and Mental Health - https://beam.community/about/
Additional Reading:
Mental Health America: Black and African American Communities and Mental Health: https://www.mhanational.org/issues/black-and-african-american-communities-and-mental-health
The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health: Navigate an Unequal System, Learn Tools for Emotional Wellness, and Get the Help You Deserve - Book by Rheeda Walker
Black Mental Health Matters: The Ultimate Guide for Mental Health Awareness in the Black Community - by Aaren Snyder
For more resource support, including setting up an appointment to speak with Bay State College’s Licensed Mental Health Counselor, please contact Megan Delano at mdelano@baystate.edu
If you are currently experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911, contact your local emergency room, or reach out to one of the following emergency resources:
- National Suicide Prevention Hotline
Call 1-(800)-273-8255
Text Line
Text "Start" to 741-741, 24/7 Free and Confidential
- Boston Area Rape Crisis Center
Call 617-492-RAPE
- Fenway Community Health Center's Violence Recovery
Call 617-927-6202
- Samaritans Crisis Hotline (National Suicide Prevention)
Call 877-870-HOPE (4673)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Text "TalkWithUs" to 66746 or call 800-985-5990