Mental Health in the U.S. among African American Men

The problem of interest to this study concerns the increasing numbers of African American men suffering from various mental health disorders (Adkison, 2023). Certainly, the African American community is not unique in this regard. Indeed, the United States has seen a concerning increase in the number of people suffering from mental health disorders in recent years, due to a combination of factors including most especially the multiple existential threats that are currently arrayed against humankind in general. In fact, studies estimate that more than 50 million Americans currently have conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and others. This widespread prevalence of mental illness in general and among African American men in particular represents a serious public health crisis (Morton, 2022). Contributing factors are complex but likely include seemingly intractable systemic racism, diminished socioeconomic status, increased social isolation, economic stressors, lack of access to care, and the lingering impacts of the pandemic (Bauer et al., 2020). Without adequate treatment and resources, mental health issues can severely reduce quality of life and lead to unemployment, disability, substance abuse, homelessness, and even suicide among the African American male population. Tackling these mental health challenges, though, will require a comprehensive strategy and long-term investments in care and prevention at all levels of society and these issues are examined further in the literature that follows below.

Literature Review

The population at highest risk of mental health disorders

Today, African American males are among the populations at highest risk of mental health disorders in the United States, with about 21% likely to experience serious mental health conditions compared to the general population (Behavioral Health Concerns, 2023). While nearly one-quarter (23.9%) of white Americans report suffering from a mental disorder at some in their life, only about 39% of African Americans receive any mental health treatment compared to more than half (52%) of white Americans (Behavioral Health Concerns, 2023).

Cultural factors related to the problem

Although multiple healthcare and socioeconomic disparities are likely responsible for this disproportionate representation, at least to some extent, racial discrimination and the cultural stigma that are associated with mental illness and those seeking assistance clearly contribute to higher risks among the African American male population (Shannon et al., 2022). Several cultural and social factors can discourage African American males from seeking help for mental health disorders (Airhihenbuwa & Webster, 2014). Indeed, powerful stigmas surrounding mental health issues frequently translate into notions of individual weakness or failure which can discourage African American males from reaching out for assistance (Foster, 2018).

There is also historical context of mistrust in the healthcare system due to experiences of racism and discrimination, which can lead to hesitation in sharing personal and sensitive issues with healthcare professionals. Strong religious and spiritual beliefs can sometimes conflict with the idea of seeking help from mental health professionals. Limited awareness and understanding of mental health issues, coupled with socioeconomic disparities, may further limit access to mental health care.

Likewise, some African American men may rely on coping mechanisms like self-reliance, self-medication, or social support from friends and family instead of seeking professional help. Cultural norms around strength and the expectation of the machismo that is associated with the strong African American manhood can also discourage men from admitting vulnerability or seeking help for mental health issues. The lack of representation of African American mental health professionals can also make it challenging...

Encouraging open conversations about mental health within the community and challenging stereotypes and norms around masculinity are important steps toward breaking down these barriers. Furthermore, the improved representation of diverse mental health professionals can help foster trust and understanding within the African American community, a major constraint that was also consistently shown to be a significant cultural impediment to seeking timely mental health care. It is likely that many African American males are unaware of symptoms or do not recognize conditions as mental health issues that require professional intervention.

There are other factors that further exacerbate this situation. For instance, without insurance or job flexibility, taking time off work for mental health care appointments is challenging. In fact, quality healthcare seems financially and logistically out of reach for many African American males, especially those living in rural communities. Consequently, improved mental health outreach and education initiatives targeted at African American males could help increase public awareness and corresponding levels of demand for mental health services. Expanding access and diversity in the mental healthcare workforce is critical to building trust and overcoming barriers that are firmly rooted in systemic inequalities.

Taken together, it is clear that the envisioned CRHIP can help raise awareness of the problem of untreated mental health disorders among African American males so that existing cultural barriers to seeking treatment can be eliminated without sacrificing the inherent qualities that make this aspect of African American manhood unique and important. In this regard, the CRHIP could apply these lessons by partnering with local leaders, incorporating cultural traditions, and co-designing interventions in collaboration with local community members.…