themindofmarvin.wordpress.com( Debose,2016)
Today it seems that mental illness is an issue that is hardly spoken about in society, particularly in the black community.Many people tend to associate mental illness with being crazy or delusional but it is definitely a discussion that we need to have. There are many mental illnesses such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar ,(ADHD) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ,this is a mental disorder that is characterized by difficulties paying attention or completing tasks and others just to name a few . These illnesses are experience by our very own families and loved ones. Some family members tend to not see the signs or notice it as their child just acting out ,but most of the times there are a lot of children that suffer from these illnesses and grow into adults who live very complicated lives .
The reason why this stigma is solely attached to the black community is that black men in particular are viewed as strong and lacking of emotion. If a man is seen crying or openly discussing his feelings he is immediately seen as weak. Many are not given the chance to openly talk about their feelings and what is bothering them. The only time a man can let go some steam is when he is in his mancave-that is chilling with his friends-There seems to be a shame in seeking treatment and its almost normalized or seen as cool as no one wants to talk about it. "Black African Caribbean men are up to 6.6 times as likely to be admitted as inpatients or detained under the Mental Health Act as the average population."(Black History,2016).
Why is there a stigma? Now, "during slavery, mental illness often resulted in a more inhumane lifestyle including frequent beatings and abuse, which forced many slaves to hide their issues. Over time, strength became equated with survival and weakness (including mental illness) meant you might not survive."(Hamm,2012). So as you can see ,it is a deep issue and openly speaking about it equates you as being weak.This has been an issue that has long plague the black community and now we are getting a little head way in addressing it. I believe we need to do more. It is important to check up on friends and love ones because its definitely time!!!
Question:How do you think mental health issues should be addressed in the black community?
Email : tashiblue114@gmail .com
Follow : Instagram teliee24
Very nice topic dear, things like this we take for granted and we need to break every chains and throw away the stigma of mental health. As well as embrace it, live a positive life and keep on educating people so they too can accept themselves and accept others. Peace, love and unity.
ReplyDelete