National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month is in July, a crucial time to spotlight the unique challenges faced by racial and ethnic minorities to manage mental health.
Mental health encompasses our emotional, mental, and social well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and act. The CDC states that fewer than one in every two African American adults got care for mental health. Asian Americans were 60 percent less likely to receive mental health treatment than non-Hispanic Whites. Obstacles for many include a lack of health insurance, less access to treatment, and stigma.
It’s important to be aware of changes in thoughts, behaviors, or moods that disrupt daily life. These could signal a need to reach out to a healthcare provider or a mental health specialist for support. Don’t hesitate to lean on trusted loved ones during these times. Mental illnesses have various causes and can manifest differently in individuals. Risk factors such as substance use, social isolation, biological factors, adverse childhood experiences, and chronic medical conditions can contribute to their development.
Managing Your Mental Health
Improving mental health with proactive steps:
- Prioritize Sleep: Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each night.
- Adopt Healthy Habits: Regular exercise and balanced nutrition support overall well-being.
- Follow Treatment Plans: Stick to plans prescribed by healthcare providers for managing mental health conditions.
- Seek Support: Join support groups or confide in healthcare providers for guidance.
By sharing these tips and resources, we can all contribute to fostering better mental health outcomes for ourselves and others. Let’s ensure everyone has equitable access to the support they need because mental health matters!
Resources and Support
Accessing resources is crucial, and Care Resource is committed to providing accessible quality healthcare. We offer behavioral health services and support tailored to diverse communities. Learn more about our behavioral health services.
About Care Resource:
Care Resource is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization and a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). The health center has four (4) facilities, including: Miami-Dade, Little Havana-(Miami-Dade), Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale and provides comprehensive health and support services to address the full health care needs of our pediatric, adolescent, and adult populations.