Ironically, while this upheaval has created the potential for change, as seen in the verdict of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who was found guilty by jurors in the state of Minnesota on two counts of murder and one count of manslaughter for the death of George Floyd — an until-now rare instance in which an officer was held accountable for killing a Black man while on the job — it has also put a strain on the mental health of many Black Americans, whose stress may be increased by continued media reports of violence and police brutality. In fact, a growing body of research shows that experiencing racism increases the risk for anxiety, ulcers, insomnia, mood swings, and emotional and social withdrawal. “The pressures of dealing with racism and fighting for equality take their toll,” said Kristy Sinkfield, director of strategy and innovation at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, at a recent seminar about racism and health. “We carry the burden of racism in our bodies, and the burden is heavy.” Even in cases in which Black Americans are resilient, have support, and practice self-care, overcoming stress rooted in systemic and constant discrimination remains a challenge, says Cheryl Giscombe, PhD, RN, who studies the health effects of racism at the University of North Carolina School of Nursing in Chapel Hill. “Undoing centuries of inequality will take time and deliberate action across all facets of society,” said Dr. Giscombe. Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM) BEAM uses education, training, advocacy, and the creative arts to remove the barriers that Black people experience when attempting to access or connect with emotional health care and healing. Black Mental Health Alliance This alliance of mental health providers serves as a clearinghouse for information and resources for people of color. The “Find a Therapist” locator can identify and connect users with a culturally competent mental health professional. Black Mental Wellness This team of professionals provides access to evidence-based information and resources about mental health and behavioral health topics from a Black perspective, as well as training opportunities for students and professionals. Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI) BWHI asks a simple yet profoundly complex question: What if all Black women and girls enjoyed optimal health and well-being in a socially just society? The organization uses policy, advocacy, education, research, and leadership development to advance health equity and social justice for Black women. Melanin & Mental Health The BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) mental health professionals connect individuals with culturally competent clinicians committed to serving the mental health needs of Black and Latino/Hispanic communities. They also promote the growth and healing of diverse communities through the organization’s website, online directory, and events. POC Online Classroom A wealth of information and readings on the importance of self-care, mental health care, and healing for people of color and within activist movements is available here. Sista Afya This Chicago-based community organization provides mental wellness education, resources, and community support for Black women. Therapy for Black Girls This online community support group promotes the mental wellness of Black women and girls. It also includes a list of mental health professionals across the country who provide high-quality, culturally competent services to Black women and girls, along with an informational podcast. The Steve Fund The only national organization focused on supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of young people of color, The Steve Fund works with colleges and universities, nonprofits, researchers, and mental health experts to promote programs and strategies that build understanding and provide assistance.
