Thriving Minds: Nurturing Mental Health and Well-Being in African American Youth

Taking care of African American youth’s mental health is a goal of great significance in
a world where everyday obstacles and expectations can be overwhelming. This is
particularly true for a young people who experience dysfunctional school systems, and a
decline in family stability, we must take a systematic approach to ensuring the mental
health and well-being of African American youth. As Dr. Amos Wilson said, “The more
we share our stories, the more connected we become as a community”. For African
American youths, the path to emotional well-being is characterized by fortitude, tenacity,
and the strength of community. This article takes you on a journey into the heart and
spirit of an African American community that perseveres in the face of hardship,
exploring the rich tapestry of their ancestry and shedding light on the contemporary
challenges they encounter, ultimately emphasizing the critical mission of nurturing
mental health well-being in African American youths.

According to SAMHSA’s 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, Sixteen
percent (4.8 million) of Black and African American youths reported having a mental
illness, and 22.4 percent of those (1.1 million people) reported a serious mental illness
over the past year. The mental health issues of African American youths are complex,
influenced by factors like cultural stigma, environmental stress, and socio-economic
disparities. Environmental factors and diet are important contributors to these problems.
Stress and mental health problems can be exacerbated by socioeconomic inequality,
which can restrict access to wholesome food and secure surroundings. Furthermore,
situations that are toxic and worsen mental health issues can be created by racism,
prejudice, and exposure to violence. Holistic approaches are needed to address these
underlying issues, such as advocating for economic equality and healthy eating options
in African American communities.

It is critical to eliminate the stigma associated with obtaining mental health care. In the
past, conversations on mental health have been a cultural taboo in the African American
community, which is frequently due to mistrust of the medical establishment. Working
with therapists who are culturally competent and aware of the particular struggles
African American adolescents face is crucial. Destigmatizing the act of seeking
treatment can be achieved by leveraging peer support, community-based efforts, and
African American role models who are open about their experiences with mental health.

Rites of passage, with their rich cultural traditions and ceremonies, also play a
significant role in nurturing the mental health of African American youths. These rites
offer a structured and culturally relevant path to self-discovery, fostering a sense of
identity and belonging, and equipping young individuals with valuable life skills. In
tandem with this effort, rites of passage emerge as a powerful tool in promoting the
mental well-being of African American youths. These age-old traditions, steeped in rich
cultural heritage and meaningful ceremonies, offer a structured and culturally relevant
journey to self-discovery. Rites of passage foster a profound sense of identity and
belonging within the community. Equally important, they impart valuable life skills,
resilience, and emotional strength. Combining efforts to destigmatize mental health care
with the reinforcement of cultural practices like rites of passage can create a strong
support system that nurtures the mental health and well-being of African American
youth.

African American youth must see a therapist to provide them with the necessary support
and guidance to navigate these issues and develop coping strategies if he/she feels
mentally distressed. Therapy provides a confidential and secure environment for
addressing psychological and emotional challenges. As Nathan Hare said, “The
psychological needs of black people differ significantly from those of whites;
accordingly, white concepts and theories of psychology may not be accurate or
appropriate for black people”. Therapists can provide culturally aware interventions that
recognize how racism and discrimination affect mental health. Young African Americans
can become more resilient, learn coping mechanisms, and acquire the skills necessary
to successfully handle the challenges of their surroundings by seeking treatment.
African American adolescents need to understand that going to therapy is a show of
strength, a kind of self-care, and a step toward better mental health.

Treating mental health issues in African American youths requires a multifaceted
strategy that takes the effects of environment, nutrition, and cultural stigmatization into
consideration. We can work toward a future where mental health support is available
and efficient for everyone by addressing socioeconomic disparities, eliminating stigma,
and highlighting the value of therapy. “Each one of us has the opportunity and the
responsibility to be the change in the world we wish to see”, said Jawanza Kunjufu.
Efforts to address the mental health needs of African American youth should be guided
and influenced by insights and perspectives from the African American and African
communities. This is crucial because these perspectives offer a deep understanding of
the distinct challenges that this community faces.