Mental Health Resources for Black Americans
Posted on Apr 30 2021
Everyday Health
Systemic racism and hostile racial environments are nothing new in the United States, but 2020 and 2021 to date have marked a significant milestone in awareness and lack of tolerance for it. Ironically, while this upheaval has created the potential for change, it has also put a strain on the mental health of many Black Americans, whose stress may be increased by continued media reports of violence and police brutality. “Racism is a public health crisis,” says Daniel H. Gillison Jr., NAMI CEO. In fact, a growing body of research shows that experiencing racism increases the risk for anxiety, ulcers, insomnia, mood swings, and emotional and social withdrawal.