By Gabe Sanders Ph.D., NSCA-CSCS
Mental health education is a growing and much-needed type of education in society today.
There are many life circumstances and external factors that can alter one’s mental health and outlook on life. Educating people regarding their circumstances and the way they internalize their struggle, can significantly enhance their long-term mental health. Overcoming barriers that can hamper a positive mental state of mind is another key strategy that takes time, education, and patience. And there are many ways to achieve a positive mental state of mind.
Depression, African Americans, and church culture
Recent research suggests that the most common mental health diagnosis for African Americans is major depression. To compound these findings, other research suggests that minorities are least likely to seek or have access to mental health treatment. The environmental complexities to seek appropriate mental healthcare extends to those in the African American church culture as well, also known as faith-based cultures.
People in faith-based organizations are not without mental health struggles, regardless of the community aspect in which a church culture may present. While exact reasons are not well understood, some of the research studies are suggesting that mental health education within the church culture may need to be enhanced and then replicated in larger populations for optimal success.
Group-type mental health education and healing
Mental health education in larger groups may have its value as it may help a person avoid feelings of isolation within their own personal struggle or issues. Group-type of education, may also promote conversations, experiences, and help individual people see their struggle as not so unique in some ways and that other people with similar, or different, beliefs and values still struggle in similar ways. This type of group community understanding may pave the way for healing, coping mechanisms, and a more positive state of mental health.
*Suffering from depression or any other mental health issues, consult with your physician or healthcare provider for counseling.
Article’s Sources
McDade, R., Peugh, J. & Crosby, L. (2021). Perception of Mental Illness in the African American Church Culture. Research Directs in Health Sciences, 1(1). Retrieved from https://researchdirects.com/index.php/healthsciences/article/view/11
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