Minorities and Mental Health
African Americans: Did You Know?
According to Healthy Minds, Healthy Lives and National Alliance On Mental Illness (NAMI), African American communities are undeserved by the nation’s mental health system despite the fact that mental illness rates in African American neighborhoods remain similar to other communities. Multiple factors, including lack of insurance and lack of access to healthcare, contribute this issue. Another identified barrier: cultural stigma towards mental health. Healthy Minds, Healthy Lives, reports many African Americans minimize the impact of mental health issues and also distrust the U.S. health care system.
Hispanic Americans: Did You Know?
A recent Surgeon's General Report reveals that the rate of mental health problems among Hispanic Americans in the U.S. is similar to that of non-Hispanic white Americans. However, the study found that fewer than 1 in 11 Hispanic Americans experiencing psychological distress seek help.
The bottom line of these findings: mental health issues can impact everyone.
This is why it's important that UWG students, faculty, staff and parents of all diverse backgrounds know the signs of psychological distress and be the help for students and others. On this webpage, you will find information pertaining to life challenges and mental health issues that minority students face. You can utilize these resources as tools to help save a life.
UWG Resources for Minority Students
Provides free and confidential personal and academic counseling to all UWG students
Mental Health Resources for Minority Groups
NOPCAS: National Association for People of Color Against Suicide
Depression and African Americans
National News and Research On Minority Groups and Mental Health
National Alliance on Mental Illness Report On Hispanic Americans
African American Suicide Facts from American Association of Suicidology
Also, check out the PREVENT calendar for upcoming campus events created specifically with your needs in mind.