How To Re-Frame Mental Health Conversations in African American Culture
- Brainz Magazine
- Apr 7
- 12 min read
Dr. LeKeshia Mathis is a prominent figure in the fields of social work and mental health. As the founder of Evolutionary Services and Consulting, she brings over a decade of experience in these areas.
Historically, the mental health challenges faced by the African American community have often been mischaracterized as signs of personal weakness or entirely overlooked, a situation deeply rooted in the historical context of slavery and ongoing systemic discrimination. Cultural expectations that prioritize strength and resilience frequently deter individuals from pursuing necessary assistance, while faith-based organizations are commonly turned to in lieu of professional mental health services. Furthermore, structural inequities, including biases among providers, a lack of culturally competent care, and financial obstacles, exacerbate the issue, leaving many individuals without the support they need. It is essential to reframe these discussions to dismantle stigma, enhance understanding, and encourage healing.
By confronting cultural misconceptions, highlighting diverse recovery narratives, and advocating for accessible and culturally attuned care, we can foster a more inclusive dialogue surrounding mental health. This transformation not only affirms the lived experiences of African Americans but also empowers individuals to seek help without the burden of fear or shame.
This article opens a significant dialogue regarding the intricate relationship between strength and vulnerability in the context of mental health.
Historical context and stigma
The negative perceptions associated with mental health within the African American community have historical origins that extend back to the era of slavery. During this time, a misguided belief prevailed that enslaved individuals were immune to mental health disorders, leading to a significant misunderstanding of their psychological well-being. This erroneous notion has contributed to a lasting stigma that continues to affect attitudes toward mental health in the community today (Burroughs, 2022). Furthermore, the legacy of slavery has fostered a culture of silence and denial regarding mental health issues, as the prevailing belief was that any signs of psychological distress were a sign of weakness or a failure to endure. This has resulted in a reluctance to seek help or discuss mental health openly, perpetuating the cycle of stigma and misunderstanding (Umeh, 2019).
Consequently, many individuals within the African American community may feel isolated in their struggles, fearing judgment or dismissal of their experiences. Additionally, the misunderstanding surrounding mental health has developed into a societal norm that frequently perceives mental health issues as indicators of personal frailty. This perspective has resulted in the adoption of euphemistic terms such as "stress" or "feeling tired," which are often employed in place of directly recognizing conditions like depression or anxiety. This cultural attitude not only diminishes the seriousness of mental health challenges but also perpetuates stigma, making it difficult for individuals to seek help or openly discuss their struggles. By framing these issues in less direct terms, society inadvertently trivializes the experiences of those affected, further isolating them in their battles with mental health (Latalova, Kamaradova, & Prasko, 2014). Thus, this tendency to downplay mental health concerns can hinder progress toward greater awareness and understanding.
The superwoman schema
The Superwoman Schema (SWS) serves as a conceptual model that outlines a collection of traits and behaviors frequently seen in African American women. This framework is deeply embedded in the historical and sociopolitical realities faced by African American women, encompassing their encounters with racism, gender discrimination, and resource scarcity. Although the SWS can foster advantages such as resilience and the safeguarding of oneself, family, and community, it also presents certain drawbacks. These adverse effects may manifest as tension in personal relationships, health issues related to stress, and the physical manifestation of stress, which can result in negative health consequences (Woods-Giscombe et al., 2016).
The components of this schema consist of the following:
1. Projecting strength
Women often feel the pressure to project an image of strength to the outside world, despite experiencing internal struggles with their own feelings of vulnerability. This societal expectation can lead to a disconnect between their external persona and internal emotions, highlighting the challenges women face in balancing perceived strength with genuine emotional experiences. The phenomenon underscores the importance of addressing the emotional well-being of women and recognizing the complexities of their lived experiences.
2. Suppressing emotions
A common tendency is to conceal or minimize their emotional experiences. This behavior stems from societal pressures or personal beliefs that discourage the open expression of feelings. The implications of this tendency can affect mental health and interpersonal relationships, as unexpressed emotions may lead to increased stress and isolation. Recognizing and addressing this need to hide emotions is essential for fostering emotional well-being and promoting healthier communication.
3. Resisting vulnerability and dependence
Women often refrain from displaying vulnerability or seeking assistance from others. This behavior stems from societal expectations and pressures that encourage self-reliance and strength. The tendency to avoid showing weakness can impact their personal and professional relationships, as it may lead to isolation or hinder collaboration. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fostering supportive environments that encourage women to express their needs and seek help when necessary.
4. Succeeding despite limited resources
Motivation to surmount challenges and reach objectives despite limited resources. It emphasizes resilience and determination as key factors in pursuing success. The underlying message suggests that constraints do not deter individuals from striving for their goals, indicating a robust spirit of perseverance.
5. Prioritizing caregiving over self-care
The tendency to prioritize caregiving and support for others at the expense of their own self-care. This behavior can lead to burnout and decreased well-being, as caregivers often neglect their own needs while focusing on those they support. It highlights the importance of finding a balance between caring for others and attending to personal health and wellness. Recognizing the value of self-care is essential for sustaining the ability to provide effective support to others. (Woods-Giscombe et al., 2016).
Faith-based organizations over mental health services
African Americans often prefer faith-based organizations over traditional mental health services due to several factors. Historically, churches have served as vital access points for social services, family counseling, and community belonging within African American communities. There exists a significant stigma surrounding mental health issues, leading many individuals to feel more comfortable discussing their concerns with trusted faith leaders rather than mental health professionals. Accessibility and familiarity with faith-based organizations, particularly in rural or underserved areas, further contribute to this preference. Research indicates that a substantial majority, 90.4%, of African Americans utilize religious coping mechanisms to address mental health challenges, viewing their faith as a crucial source of strength and resilience (AFSP). Additionally, faith-based support is often perceived as more culturally competent and aligned with the values and experiences of African Americans compared to traditional mental health services (Avent & Cashwell). Faith-based organizations not only provide a sense of community and belonging but also foster empowerment and hope, which are essential for individuals navigating mental health difficulties. Lastly, the shortage of African American mental health professionals exacerbates the challenge of finding culturally competent care, as many individuals have historically encountered lower-quality and culturally insensitive mental health services (NIH).
Impact on African American men
The stigma surrounding mental health in the African American community often portrays mental illness as a sign of weakness or lack of faith. This cultural perception can make African American men feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help for their mental health issues (Blankenship). African American men are often conditioned from childhood to be strong, stoic, and not show emotions (Johnson et al., 2024).
These masculine norms can lead to:
Reluctance to express vulnerability or admit to struggling with mental health issues
Pressure to maintain a strong, stoic image, which can prevent acknowledgment of mental health problems (Saafe).
Negative correlation between adherence to masculine norms and attitudes toward seeking mental health treatment (Johnson et al., 2024).
The belief that men should respond to stress with stoicism and emotional control can exacerbate depression symptoms among African American men. This is particularly evident in men aged 30 years and older, suggesting a cumulative burden of suffering in silence (UNC).
African American men may face additional obstacles in accessing mental health care, including:
Discrimination and racism in the healthcare system
Fear of being misunderstood or not taken seriously by healthcare providers
Lower quality mental health care compared to their white counterparts (Blankenship).
Lack of culturally competent mental health care providers (Saafe).
Lastly, class status plays a significant role in shaping behaviors associated with Black masculinity, including aggression, criminality, and homophobic attitudes. Limited economic opportunities can restrict the expression of male power, potentially leading to negative behaviors (Blankenship).
Culturally sensitive approaches
Culturally attuned strategies are essential for tackling mental health disparities faced by African Americans, as they recognize the complex relationship between systemic obstacles and resilience factors. These strategies incorporate cultural values, historical backgrounds, and community assets to promote effective treatment and recovery. By validating personal experiences and highlighting intrinsic strengths, culturally attuned care helps to close the gaps in mental health equity. It shifts the narrative from vulnerability to resilience by prioritizing African American cultural frameworks within therapeutic practices, thereby facilitating a reexamination of mental health discussions in African American communities and revealing the strength that can be found in vulnerability. Some ways to help accomplish this objective are as follows:
1. Respecting cultural perspectives
Cultural awareness training: Mental health professionals should engage in training programs to understand African American cultural values, beliefs, and experiences
Tailored communication styles: Adjusting communication to fit cultural norms ensures that clients feel respected and understood (SAMHSA).
2. Integrating preferred coping mechanisms
Spirituality-based approaches: Many African Americans rely on spirituality for coping. Incorporating faith-based practices into therapy can be beneficial
Community support networks: Leveraging familial ties and community resources aligns with collectivist coping styles prevalent among African Americans (Boff, 2008).
3. Upholding dignity
Anti-oppressive practices: Professionals should actively address power imbalances to create a safe environment free from discrimination (SAMHSA).
4. Inclusive representation
Employing diverse staff members who reflect the client's background fosters a sense of belonging and validation (Newport Healthcare).
Additional proposed solutions
Tackling the stigma surrounding mental health necessitates a comprehensive strategy that recognizes the historical background while enhancing awareness and education in this field. Encouraging open dialogue and offering resources that are sensitive to cultural differences can effectively confront the long-standing misconceptions that have been ingrained in society. Such a transformation can enable individuals to pursue the assistance they require, resulting in better mental health outcomes and fostering a more supportive community atmosphere. Furthermore, it is essential to integrate mental health education into various platforms, including schools, workplaces, and community organizations. By doing so, we can create an environment where mental health is openly discussed, and individuals feel safe to share their experiences without fear of judgment. This proactive approach not only helps to dismantle the barriers created by stigma but also cultivates a culture of empathy and understanding, which is vital for the well-being of all community members. In addition, collaboration among mental health professionals, community leaders, and policymakers is crucial in developing initiatives that address stigma effectively. By working together, these stakeholders can create campaigns that highlight the importance of mental health and promote resources available for those in need. This collective effort can lead to a significant shift in societal attitudes, encouraging individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek help when necessary, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more inclusive society. (Edwards-Grossi & Willoughby, 2024).
YBMen
Programs such as YBMen exemplify effective peer-support initiatives that foster open dialogue aimed at improving mental health discussions within the African American male community. By creating a safe space for individuals to express their personal experiences, these initiatives not only promote conversation but also nurture a greater sense of empathy and connection among participants. This method plays a crucial role in tackling the specific challenges encountered by African American men, thereby enhancing overall mental health and strengthening community bonds. Furthermore, the significance of such programs extends beyond mere conversation; they serve as vital platforms for education and awareness. Participants are encouraged to share their stories, which can lead to the dismantling of the stigma surrounding mental health issues. This collective sharing not only validates individual experiences but also highlights common struggles, fostering a sense of unity and support that is essential for personal and communal growth. In addition, the impact of peer-support programs like YBMen can be seen in the way they empower individuals to seek help and advocate for their mental health needs. By normalizing discussions around mental well-being, these initiatives inspire participants to take proactive steps towards their own health and encourage others to do the same. Ultimately, the work done through such programs is pivotal in creating a more supportive environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being within the African American male community. (Watkins et al., 2020).
Cultural competency training
Engaging in cultural competency training equips mental health professionals with essential insights and skills necessary for effectively addressing the varied experiences of African American clients. This training enhances their awareness of the cultural subtleties that impact mental health, enabling professionals to deliver care that is not only respectful but also in harmony with the cultural values and beliefs of the individuals they assist (Chue et al., 2023). Through this process, mental health professionals become more adept at recognizing and navigating the complexities of cultural identity, which is crucial for building trust and rapport with clients. By understanding the historical and social contexts that shape the mental health experiences of African Americans, professionals can tailor their approaches to better meet the unique needs of this population. Ultimately, cultural competency training serves as a foundational element in the provision of effective mental health care, fostering an environment where clients feel understood and valued. This commitment to cultural awareness not only enhances the therapeutic relationship but also contributes to improved outcomes for African American clients, as their specific cultural contexts are acknowledged and integrated into the care they receive (Mental Health CE).
Real conversations
The dialogue underscores the necessity of redefining the concept of strength within the African American community, promoting a more sophisticated perspective that respects the longstanding appreciation for resilience. It stresses the significance of acknowledging and accepting vulnerability, as well as the importance of freely expressing emotions, which are vital components in nurturing mental health and overall well-being. Furthermore, this conversation calls for a broader understanding of what it means to be strong, suggesting that true strength encompasses not only the ability to endure hardships but also the courage to be open about one’s feelings and struggles. Integrating these elements into the community's narrative paves the way for a more holistic approach to mental health that values emotional honesty alongside traditional notions of toughness. Ultimately, this shift in perspective aims to create a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to share their experiences without fear of judgment. By fostering a culture that celebrates both resilience and vulnerability, the African American community can enhance its collective mental health and promote a deeper sense of connection among its members.
Community-based interventions
Community-oriented strategies present considerable potential for addressing mental health concerns, as they leverage the strength of social support networks and local initiatives to establish systems of care that can adeptly confront the specific challenges encountered by individuals in the community (Castillo et al., 2019). By building connections within the community, these efforts not only offer emotional and practical support but also help create a sense of belonging and understanding, both of which are vital for mental health. The teamwork involved in these initiatives encourages people to get involved and engage, enabling them to share their experiences and resources, which ultimately boosts the overall effectiveness of the support offered. Community-based interventions can be customized to address the unique needs of different populations, making sure that the solutions are culturally appropriate and easy to access. This localized strategy not only helps individuals take control of their mental health but also fortifies the community overall, fostering a more resilient environment where mental health challenges can be tackled together with empathy and understanding (Castillo et al., 2019).
Afrocentric models
Afrocentric models in mental health prioritize the incorporation of African cultural values, the strengths inherent within communities, and the historical context that shapes the psychological well-being of African American populations. By doing so, these frameworks challenge the Eurocentric focus on individualism, instead highlighting the importance of collective identity and cultural resilience. Furthermore, they address systemic obstacles, such as racism, that significantly impact mental health outcomes within these communities. These models recognize that mental health cannot be viewed in isolation from the cultural and social environments in which individuals exist. By integrating traditional African practices and communal support systems, Afrocentric approaches foster a sense of belonging and empowerment among individuals. This holistic perspective not only promotes healing but also encourages individuals to draw upon their cultural heritage as a source of strength in overcoming challenges (Gebremikael et al., 2022).
Conclusion
The mental health landscape for the African American community is shaped by a unique set of challenges that are deeply rooted in historical, cultural, and systemic factors. The enduring stereotypes surrounding the "strong Black man" and "strong Black woman" perpetuate a cultural narrative that equates emotional resilience with the suppression of feelings. This prevailing belief system cultivates a stigma associated with vulnerability, leading many individuals to hesitate in voicing their emotional struggles or pursuing mental health support. As a result, these societal expectations create formidable obstacles that not only obscure the acknowledgment of mental health issues but also restrict access to essential care and resources. Moreover, the intersection of these stereotypes with systemic inequities further complicates the mental health landscape for African Americans. Historical injustices, such as discrimination and socioeconomic disparities, have contributed to a lack of trust in mental health systems, making individuals wary of seeking help. This distrust is compounded by a scarcity of culturally competent mental health professionals who can effectively address the specific needs of the community.
Consequently, the combination of cultural narratives and systemic barriers results in a significant underutilization of mental health services, leaving many individuals without the support they require. In light of these challenges, it is crucial to foster a more inclusive dialogue around mental health within the African American community. By challenging the stereotypes that equate strength with emotional stoicism, there is an opportunity to create a more supportive environment that encourages individuals to express their feelings and seek help without fear of judgment. Additionally, increasing access to culturally relevant mental health resources and promoting awareness of mental health issues can empower individuals to prioritize their well-being. Ultimately, addressing these barriers is essential for improving mental health outcomes and ensuring that all members of the community receive the care and support they deserve (Woods-Giscombe et al., 2016). To truly reframe the mental health conversations in African American culture, the barriers have to be understood and then addressed appropriately. Therefore allowing the African American population to feel safe, understood, and most importantly heard.
Read more from LeKeshia Harless Mathis
LeKeshia Harless Mathis, Advocate, Advisor and Mentor
Dr. LeKeshia Mathis is an influential leader in social work and mental health. Her earlier work in child welfare has led her to a profound commitment to helping those facing mental health challenges, racial disparities, and inequalities, especially within underserved communities. She has dedicated her life to empowering, supporting, and advocating for individuals from all walks of life. As the CEO of Evolutionary Services and Consulting, she is focused on helping individuals discover and embrace their true potential.
