July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
I’m a big advocate for mental health because I know firsthand how important it is to prioritize your emotional and mental well-being. July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shining a light on the unique mental health challenges faced by Black, Brown, and other communities of color. This month isn’t just about awareness, it’s about breaking stigmas, improving access to care, and encouraging real conversations that help us heal and support each other.
The Numbers Tell the Story
- In 2020, fewer than half of Black adults who needed mental health care received it.
- Cost, limited providers, cultural stigma, and distrust of the medical system keep far too many from seeking help.
Why Awareness Matters
Mental health shapes how we handle stress, make choices, and show up for family and community. When support is missing, everyday challenges can snowball into anxiety, depression, or thoughts of self‑harm. Normalizing therapy and peer support opens doors for healing.
How you can take action this month:
- Learn and share: Mental Health America offers a free 2025 BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit with culturally grounded worksheets and social‑media graphics. mhanational.org
- Reach out early: Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you or someone you love is in distress.
- Support new moms: The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is available at 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA for postpartum concerns.
- Find community care: Look for therapists who share your background, join faith‑based or grassroots support circles, or simply start open conversations at home.
If you notice persistent sadness, anxiety, or withdrawal from yourself or a loved one, please talk to a healthcare provider or a trusted friend. Therapy transformed my ability to cope and connect, and help is out there for you too. Let’s use this month to move from awareness to action so every voice in our community feels heard, valued, and mentally whole.