Day 5: Black Men Facing Depression

Mental health providers treating African American males need cultural competency. Understanding this population’s unique experiences, beliefs, and values may considerably improve care and treatment success. In this post, we’ll discuss why mental health providers must understand African American men’s issues.

Cultural, societal, and historical issues affect African American men’s mental health. Systemic racism and discrimination can cause chronic stress, trauma, and mistrust of mainstream institutions, especially the healthcare system, in African American men. Poverty, unemployment, and other socio-economic factors can also cause mental health issues. African American men’s cultural views on mental health, requesting assistance, and accessing mental health services might also affect their treatment willingness.

Therefore, African American males need culturally competent mental health practitioners. This requires knowing this population’s cultural experiences, beliefs, and values, as well as historical and systemic variables that affect their mental health. Cultural competency can assist mental health providers create trust and rapport with African American males, address their mental health concerns culturally, and deliver culturally sensitive care.

Culturally competent mental health providers understand how culture affects mental health and therapy and may adjust their approach. They may utilize culturally appropriate terminology, participate in culturally relevant activities, and refer African American males to culturally and socially relevant resources. This can increase therapy involvement, results, and health for this group.

Finally, mental health providers must understand African American men’s issues. Cultural competency may create trust, offer culturally sensitive care, and enhance patient outcomes. Mental health providers can better serve African American males by knowing their particular experiences, beliefs, and values.