Overview:
• July is designated as Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month to raise awareness of the challenges faced by racial and ethnic minorities in the US.
• The article discusses the low treatment rates for African American adults with mental illness, the positive impact of spirituality on mental health, and the availability of the National Suicide Hotline for those in crisis.
By Gwendolyn Carole
Tipton
In 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives designated July as Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. So, it’s an excellent time to communicate about mental health. Campbell was an author, advocate, and cofounder of the National Alliance of Mental Illness. This designation of July aimed to bring awareness to the unique challenges that racial and ethnic minorities in the United States face when it comes to mental illness.
Unfortunately, less than 50% of African American adults with mental illness receive any treatment because they tend to encounter negative experiences when seeking help. People of color who experience racial traumas are more likely to have some mental stress. As adults, they pass these stresses on to the next generation. Some can trace the roots of mental health stigma back to long-lasting sadness and social drama in their living environments.
Spirituality can have a positive impact on our emotional well-being. When we pray for wisdom and comfort, we fully believe the Lord will hear and deliver us from our troubles. When we meditate, seeking guidance, we expect to receive a path to overcome disorders related to mental health. Such disorders may include mood swings, excessive fear or worry, and social withdrawal.
Treatment is a factor in recovery. In addition to seeking counseling, a doctor’s advice, and medication, using the Bible as a resource may generate helpful thoughts. Below are three Bible verses that may provide pause when we think we’re entering a phase of mental illness or a family member or friend may be showing signs. These Scriptures are related to mental health and remind us that God is near, even when we’re not sure why we’re crying out for help.
“But after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called us to His eternal glory through Christ Jesus, will restore, support, strengthen, and establish you” (Philippians 4:6).
The National Suicide Hotline for those experiencing a mental health or suicidal crisis is 1-800-273-8255.