What does BMH mean in HEALTHCARE

Black mental health is the focus on understanding, diagnosing and treating the varied mental health issues among African American individuals. It specifically examines how cultural differences can affect diagnosis, treatment and access to support services.

Structural racism has played a major role in creating disparities in resources for black mental health. Racism within financial systems, healthcare systems and other public institutions has impacted African American communities by limiting access to quality education, childcare, housing, nutrition and healthcare services — all of which are necessary for good mental health outcomes.

Studies have highlighted higher rates of depression, anxiety and PTSD among African American communities compared to their White counterparts. Other prevalent disorders include intellectual disability, substance use disorders and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

A variety of methods can be utilized depending on one's individual needs such as psychotherapy with an experienced practitioner who understands cultural context, medication or community-based programs like support groups or wellness activities with peers who share similar experiences.

Yes! There are a number of organizations across the U.S., both national and local, that focus on supporting the BMH community through education programs, hotline services and advocacy campaigns such as The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), The Reset Initiative Network (TRIN) or Mental Health America (MHA).