In the U.S., communities of African descent experience mental health conditions about as much as or less than white Americans. However, the historical experience of these communities in the U.S. has been, and continues to be, characterized by trauma and violence more often than for their white counterparts. This racial trauma impacts the emotional and mental health of both youth and adults.
Mental health resources for communities of African descent
Resources from MHA
- Depression in Black Americans
- Bipolar disorder and Black Americans
- Black pioneers in mental health
- Black History Month
- Racial trauma
- Reimagining self-care for Black folks
- A Black Christian’s journey to mental wellness
- Confronting barriers and systemic racism to address mental health among Black youth
- Black dreams and Black joy: Embracing our sacred spaces
- Black joy: Impacting the mental health of Black communities
- Ubuntu: Exploring the Black community as an inherited system of peer support
- I am because we are: Reclaiming African culture as a source of strength in Black communities
Additional resources
- AAKOMA Project
- Black Emotional Mental Health (BEAM)
- Black Men Heal
- Black Women’s Health Imperative
- Call Blackline
- Eustress
- GirlTrek
- National Black Justice Coalition
- Ourselves Black
- Safe Black Space
- Sista Afya
- The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation
- The Confess Project
- The Loveland Foundation
- Therapy for Black Girls
- Therapy for Black Men
- Tips for Self-Care for Black Families
*A note on language: Terminology around cultural identity evolves over time, and individuals may have varying preferences. These resources will primarily use “communities of African descent” to acknowledge the diversity within the broader African diaspora. The African diaspora encompasses people from various countries, regions, and cultural backgrounds. This includes individuals who may identify with their African heritage but not necessarily with specific national or cultural labels. Government and academic data cited may use Black or African American.
Take a mental health test
If you or a friend are struggling with your mental health, take an anonymous, free, and private mental health test. It only takes a few minutes, and after you are finished, you will be given information about the next steps you can take based on the results.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.
