The term “The Melting Pot” was first used in the 1780s to describe the variety of immigrants that poured into the United States from all over the world.
July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. America has become a melting pot over the past 250 years. And we’ve developed our own unique culture. But our rich, joint heritage doesn’t negate our differences. Depending on our background, our pockets of culture, and our skin color, our experiences are not the same. Especially in the way black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) experience treatment for mental health issues.
Mental Health Is Not a “Respecter” of People
Problems like depression, anxiety, and other challenges affect everyone without regard to race, gender, or culture. But while mental health issues are equal opportunity problems, access to mental health care isn’t and can be more difficult for some, depending on their ethnic and cultural background.
According to studies, minority races and cultures are less likely to receive mental health treatment, Asian Americans are the least likely to seek out and receive care, and white women are the most likely group to attend therapy.
There are several reasons for this discrepancy. Minorities often have:
● less access to care
● poorer quality care
● language barriers
● lower rates of insurance coverage
● a stigma within cultural and racial communities about getting care
● difficulty finding racially and culturally sensitive therapists
All these problems together can result in the patient dropping out of therapy after one or two sessions instead of staying the course.
Steps to Take
Every person seeking care deserves quality care from a therapist who can be trusted, who respects and accepts each patient’s unique background, and who’s affordable. That’s why it’s important to know what to look for and the right questions to ask. If you are a minority race or come from a marginalized culture, keep the following in mind when seeking a therapist:
Be open-minded. Don’t limit your choice to someone of your race or cultural background. Just because you have the same skin color or culture does not mean that person will be culturally sensitive to your situation. They might be more empathetic, but it might also mean they have less compassion for your circumstances. Instead, look for people who have training in multicultural concerns, even if they don’t share your background.
Look for a free phone consultation. This will give you a chance to interview your potential therapist and ask questions that are important to you.
Commit to the process. Therapy doesn’t work overnight. Building a relationship of trust and respect takes time. If you want to quit therapy because you don’t feel understood or accepted, give it one or two more chances, and explain your feelings to your therapist. They may change tactics or refer you to someone who can better meet your needs.
Keep in Mind
No matter your skin color, background, or culture, you have a right to quality mental healthcare. If you feel depressed or anxious, or if you’re generally not satisfied with your life and you’d like help to make it better, be proactive. Your mental health is worth it.
©2023 Amplified Life Network
