Understanding and addressing racial disparities in mental health

As a behavioral health professional, you know that anyone can face barriers to getting mental healthcare. For people of color, however, these challenges are often greater. Recent data highlights significant gaps in access and quality of care. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2023, 27% of non-Hispanic white adults received mental health treatment, compared to only 15.1% of non-Hispanic Black adults.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness notes several reasons for this gap. As you work with diverse populations, it is important to recognize these contributing factors, including:

• A lack of available services in their community
• Difficulty with transportation, childcare or taking time off from work
• The belief that mental health treatment may not be effective
• Stigma around mental health conditions within some populations
• A healthcare system that may not align with their cultural norms or values
• Personal or observed experiences of racism, bias or discrimination in treatment settings
• Language barriers and a shortage of providers who speak languages other than English
• A lack of health insurance or high deductibles and copays that make care unaffordable

In your role, you are in a unique position to be a powerful advocate for change. Here are several steps you can take to help reduce these disparities and improve access to care.

Foster professional diversity

Encourage diverse staffing within your own organizations and professional groups. Your involvement can help build teams with varied backgrounds and perspectives, providing the insight needed to create meaningful change.

Advocate for systemic change

While racism is a human issue, disparities in healthcare are also a systemic one. You can use your professional standing to connect with local legislators and advocate for policies that improve the availability, access and quality of mental health services for everyone in the communities you serve.

Use your professional voice

Using your professional voice to speak out for racial equality in mental healthcare raises critical awareness. Look for opportunities to share your insights with colleagues, in professional forums or on social media. If you make a mistake, the important thing is to apologize, learn from it and continue your advocacy.

Commit to ongoing education

You can find many online lists of books, movies and podcasts about racial injustice. Committing to ongoing education will expand your understanding of the history, the challenges and the ways you can make a clinical and social impact. Check out this list of anti-racism resources to get started.

By taking these steps, you can help improve access, availability and quality of mental healthcare for all people, creating a more equitable system for the individuals you serve.