What Is BIPoC Mental Health Month?

In the past, July was designated to be Minority Mental Health month.This month is significant, but although the word “minority” seems inclusive, it reduces and oversimplifies the separate experiences of different People of Color. It is important that we change our vocabulary and replace the word “minority” with “BIPoC”. BIPoC stands for (B) Black , (I) Indigenous, and (PoC) People of Color.

The name includes all PoC’s, but distinguishes Black and Indigenous people from the category, in order to bring awareness to the legacies of oppression that these people have experienced in America and the enduring effects that these struggles have had on the groups mental health (“BIPOC Mental Health Month”, 2020).

For example, in the early and late 1900s, the condition of schizophrenia was attributed to Black men. As schizophrenia was categorized as a social disease, people began to say that this condition that created violent and aggressive behavior, was one that prominently affected Black men.This created an unfair stereotype and perceived vision of the Black community, further fueling racial disparity and discrimination (“The Historical Roots”, 2020).

This is only one historical example of how the Black community has faced barriers in mental health care. BIPoC people face discrimination and disparity when it comes to ease of access of mental health resources and services. These groups are more likely to be uninsured and receive care of a lower quality, and they are less likely to seek help (“Three Things to Know”, 2020).

In addition to external barriers, there is a prevalence of stigma towards seeking help within many BIPoC communities. One stigma is the idea that both experiencing a mental health condition and seeking help for it is a sign of weakness. This often acts as a deterrent to getting help,as many may feel ashamed or even afraid to seek help, feeling as if their emotions are not valid or significant (“Stigma Regarding Mental Illness”, 2019).

Another large barrier facing many communities is a lack of open communication; the idea that you should not share your own personal problems with others. Many groups find it to be unnecessary, or even burdensome to share personal stories and trauma with anyone, whether it be a mental health professional or their own loved ones. This is often coupled with the derisive idea that getting help is unnecessary.

Lastly, according to the American Psychological Association, 86% of psychologists in the US are white. This under representation of BIPoC mental health professionals has a profound impact on the quality of care for many BIPoC seeking help. It is important for BIPoC to feel understood regarding racism and microaggressions, and having a healthcare provider who empathizes and understands their struggle can be necessary. Unfortunately, even with the best intentions, this is a dimension of trauma that can feel completely foreign to many white professionals (Three Things to Know, 2020).

Although recognizing BIPoC struggles in mental health is emphasized in this month of July, it should be emphasized all year. Break the silence regarding mental health, and take action to reduce stigma, racism and discrimination in our community. Be an advocate, because BIPoC mental health matters.

References

The historical roots of racial disparities in the mental health system. (2020, May 12). Retrieved July 08, 2020, from https://ct.counseling.org/2020/05/the-historical-roots-of-racial-disparities-in-the-mental-health-system/

Three Things To Know for BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month. (2020, July 08). Retrieved July 08, 2020, from https://themighty.com/2020/07/bipoc-mental-health-month-things-to-know/

BIPOC Mental Health Month. (n.d.). Retrieved July 08, 2020, from https://mhanational.org/BIPOC-mental-health-month

Stigma Regarding Mental Illness among People of Color. (2019, July 08). Retrieved July 08, 2020, from https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/BH365/2019/07/08/stigma-regarding-mental-illness-among-people-of-color/