Discrimination in Mental Health Services: A Look at Past and Current Prejudices

In a world where mental health discussions are becoming more open, it's crucial to acknowledge the challenges faced by marginalized populations, particularly Black individuals, in accessing and navigating mental health care services.

C. Imani Williams, a wellness coach and author based in Nevada, shares a personal story of her loved ones with mental health conditions being ostracized due to a lack of open discussion about mental health. This experience is not unique, as the pervasive nature of racism often leads to barriers in addressing mental health issues.

The update of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) to the DSM-5-TR aims to address culture, race, and ethnicity-based equity and inclusion in mental health care settings. However, the journey towards true inclusivity is far from over.

Lisa Rosenberg, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist in New Jersey, has provided respite for some of her Black clients. These clients have felt guarded mentioning racist incidents or microaggressions to white therapists, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces for all individuals seeking mental health support.

Sadly, instances of discrimination persist. Freelance journalist Odochi Ibe was denied medication to treat her attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by a mental health professional based on her looks. Such incidents underscore the need for a more equitable and inclusive mental health care system.

The book "Medical Apartheid" provides examples of how racial disparities affect treatment and assessment in healthcare, including how Black people are less likely to receive medication. This alarming trend underscores the need for systemic change.

Research reviews suggest that sociocultural factors play a significant role in how racial or ethnic minority groups are treated for mental illness or whether they seek treatment at all. Unfortunately, a 2018 study describing the application of implicit racism in psychotherapeutic institutions does not provide specific information about the majority authors cited.

To mitigate racism within mental health, various steps can be taken. These include regular reassessment of policies and practices, engaging in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work led by BIPOC folks, and addressing internal biases and language pitfalls. By taking these steps, we can strive towards a mental health care system that is equitable and inclusive for all.

Feeling like you have to push to be heard or fight to have your existence acknowledged in therapy can be overwhelming and exhausting. It's crucial that you're able to feel safe in the therapeutic setting when it comes to taking care of your mental health. Let us continue to advocate for change and strive towards a future where everyone can access mental health care with dignity and respect.