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Why do we celebrate Black History Month?
“Since its inception, Black History Month has never been just a celebration of Black America’s achievements and stories—it’s part of a deliberate political strategy to be recognized as equal citizens.” –Dr. Theodore R. Johnson
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Mental Health America's article on Black History Month covers the importance of the intersection between the Black community and mental health:
"We are highlighting Black and African American contributions to the mental health movement because they are oftentimes overlooked. Without recognizing the lack of representation of Black and African American people in the mental health movement, we do a disservice and continue to inflict harm.
Learning about the history of systemic racism during Black History Month - and all year - in the mental health system and movement and how it harms Black communities in the US and around the world is key for creating a mentally healthier world."
Continue reading Mental Health America's article, which includes resources about the history of Black mental health, statistics related to mental health in Black and African American communities, Black voices on mental health, and more.
The Bipartisan Policy Center published a report on behavioral health care specialists, titled "Filling the Gaps in the Behavioral Health Workforce." The report covers the importance of these kinds of workers, such as peers and community health workers, as well as recommendations on how to address the shortage. Read an excerpt:
"The United States faces a growing shortage of licensed behavioral health care specialists—psychiatrists, psychologists, and clinical social workers—and that shortage comes at a time when rates of mental illness and substance use disorder (SUD) are high and rising.
The shortage has severely limited access to treatment, particularly among underserved communities. To help address the access gap, federal policymakers should take steps to foster a behavioral health workforce that extends beyond licensed professionals."
Read the entire report.
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