How mental health experts are working to bridge the gap facing minorities

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - One in five American adults live with a mental illness across racial backgrounds. During this Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, experts are focusing on bridging the gap in care.

The prevalence of mental illness in America doesn’t vary much based on race or ethnicity. Minorities do face an uphill battle when it comes to addressing mental health concerns.

“Being heard is really a big thing, because I know sometimes with the minority population, we’re not really heard sometimes,” said Samara West, therapist with the Child Saving Institute. “I think that it’s really beneficial to have someone understand your background or even your culture.”

As a minority herself, West says representation in mental health care helps address barriers like cultural stigma. Another barrier: language. Sabrina Felix is a bilingual mental health therapist.

“I can see that there is a weight off their shoulders, and they can sit down and relax and say what they need to say,” Felix said.

Data from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality shows about half of white adults with mental illness receive services, compared to 31% of Blacks and Hispanics, and 22% of Asians. Felix, who also works for Child Saving Institute, encourages her clients to seek resources and to start with a new perspective.

For those experiencing a mental health crisis, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is always available; call or text 988.

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