Mental health is critical to our well-being. Though an estimated 1 in 5 people will experience some form of mental health issue in their lifetime, there is often reluctance associated with seeking treatment for psycholigical issues. This stigma is experienced even more by members of the African American, Latiné, Asian-Pacific Islander, and Indigenous communities. Historically, there have been logistical or cultural barriers for people from racial and ethnic minorities in accessing care. For healing to take place, it is important for those experiencing mental disorders to feel welcome, to share their stories, and to feel understood.
To acknowledge the issue and create awareness around minority mental health, in 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives designated July as Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Ms. Campbell, an author, teacher, and journalist, was a staunch mental health advocate. She recognized the need for marginalized communities to have access to mental health support without shame. Her writings and work with the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) fought against the stigma of seeking help for mental illness.
Terako Amison, MD, Medical Director of Work/Life Connections-EAP, encourages individuals to use resources championed by advocates like Campbell to find the help they need. "NAMI is a great resource that provides free online and in-person educational opportunities for anyone who wants to learn more about mental health. I encourage everyone to check out NAMI's website.," says Amison.
Work/Life Connections-EAP provides short-term mental health counseling as a benefit to employees, and can connect individuals to community providers for long-term care that meets their specific needs. VUMC faculty, staff members, and spouses can start their healing journey with a counselor by calling (615) 936-1327 to set up a free, confidential appointment.
