Every July, National Minority Mental Health Month shines a light on the mental health challenges faced by minority communities across the United States. Initiated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, National Minority Mental Health Month raises awareness about persistent disparities in mental health access and care among racial and ethnic minorities, promotes educational resources, encourages dialogue, and fosters support systems for those who need it most.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, minority communities disproportionately suffer from mental health challenges such as stress, depression, substance abuse, and suicide. This is because these communities are more likely to face discrimination and lack job, housing, and food security. Additionally, studies consistently show that these communities often face greater barriers to receiving quality mental health services than their white counterparts. Factors such as cultural stigma, language barriers, discrimination, and socioeconomic disparities can all contribute to reduced access to mental health resources.

To address these challenges in the communities we serve, Whittier Street Health Center has integrated culturally sensitive, high-quality, and comprehensive Behavioral Health services into our primary care model. Our Behavioral Health Department comprises psychiatrists, psychologists, nurse practitioners, social workers, and licensed mental health counselors for children, adolescents, and adults. Patient Navigators, Care Coordinators, and High-Risk Case Managers also support patients in addressing their health and social needs. Our team treats a variety of mental health conditions such as depression, PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and stress-related issues.

Cultural competence is a crucial aspect of mental health care emphasized during National Minority Mental Health Month. Mental health care providers must understand and respect the cultural backgrounds and beliefs of their patients to provide effective treatment. Whittier is proud to ensure that individuals from minority communities receive care which is sensitive, respectful, and tailored to their unique needs by promoting cultural competence with mental health practitioners who resemble our patient population and who are from the same communities.

Stigma surrounding mental health also remains a significant barrier to seeking help, particularly in minority communities where cultural beliefs and norms may influence perceptions of mental illness. Whittier’s Behavioral Health team works to destigmatize mental health through educational community events that are free and open to all. Currently at Whittier, the ABCs of Mental Health is a series of education workshops which promote open conversations about mental health in our communities and which encourage individuals to seek the support they need without fear of judgment or discrimination.

For more information and to seek support from the Whittier Street Health Center Behavioral Health Department, please contact 617-858-2429.