Anyone can experience a mental health issue, no matter what their background is. However, certain minority groups are not only at a higher risk of experiencing a mental health issue, they also face more challenges when it comes to seeking support and treatment.
National Minority Health Awareness Month was created to highlight the inequalities that minority groups face when it comes to mental health. By educating people and raising awareness, the event aims to start important conversations and drive positive change to ensure that mental healthcare is accessible to all.
Being part of a minority group means that you might encounter certain challenges, like bias and discrimination, which can cause stress and lead to mental health issues. For instance, experiences of racism are linked to an increased likelihood of developing depression, hallucinations, delusions, and, where physical assault is involved, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to Mind charity.
Rethink.org report that people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds are also more likely to live in poverty than white people, and people living in poverty have a higher chance of developing and experiencing mental health issues.
However, while certain communities experience more mental health issues, this doesn’t mean that they access more support. Research shows that despite higher prevalence, Black adults have the lowest mental health treatment rate of any ethnic group at 6%, compared to 13% in the white British group.
The reasons why people from certain minority communities have less access to mental health support is varied and differs between groups, but it could be to do with:
In one of ieso’s focus groups, participants from ethnic minority backgrounds highlighted their own feelings and views on seeking mental health support, many of which related to the stigma around mental health, for example:
Although certain minority groups may face additional challenges when it comes to mental health support, this doesn’t mean that mental health issues shouldn’t be addressed. Everyone has the right to mental healthcare.
If you’re struggling with your mental health and you’re not sure what to do next, we hope that these suggestions will help. If someone you know is struggling, we’ve written about how to support them here.
Ask yourself if there’s something that’s stopping you from reaching out for support - are you worried about being judged or what it will say about you as a person? Remember, it’s okay not to be okay. Mental health is just like physical health; we’re bound to encounter challenges from time to time. Despite what some people may think, struggling with your mental health doesn’t make you weak or less than in any way.
How well we take care of ourselves can make a big difference when it comes to our mental health. Anything that prioritises your physical or mental wellbeing is a form of self-care. This could look like sticking to a healthy routine, which includes waking up at a regular time, moving your body, eating balanced meals and getting enough sleep.
It’s also important to find time to relax and switch off. You could try an activity that helps you to unwind, like meditation or breathing exercises, or simply something that you genuinely enjoy, like watching your favourite film, playing an instrument, reading, singing or gardening.
If you’re struggling with your mental health, opening up to someone can not only help you to process your emotions, it can also make you feel less alone. Is there someone in your life that you’d feel comfortable speaking to, such as a close friend or family member? If not, you can call Samaritans listening service for free 24/7 on 116 123.
You should also talk to a mental health professional. Your GP will be able to tell you about different treatment options, but if you don’t feel able to speak to them, there are other mental health services set up specifically to support minority groups. Here are some examples:
At ieso, we offer typed cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety and PTSD. Patients can speak to a therapist online by typing back and forward, or we can offer video calls in some locations. Sessions are free for some NHS patients. Find out more about what we do.
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