… while behaviors like smoking, drug use, and consuming comfort foods may serve as negative coping skills in White Americans, these same behaviors may buffer African-Americans from developing mental health disorders consequently contributing to disproportionate rates of physical health problems like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. It seems self- medicating may play a significant role in helping African-Americans to function in stressful environments but clearly to the detriment of our health.
• Myth #3: “For those who believe in God, prayer is the only way.”
Some people in this day and age don’t believe in seeking professional help for mental illness. In a 2010 poll in three Georgia counties, nearly one-third of respondents over the age of 35 believed that prayer outweighs seeking professional help for mental illness. But what’s wrong with those who practice mental health counseling? Short answer: nothing. As a matter of fact, God could be the one sending the mental health counselor to help you! So this myth definitely needs to change so we can all get better.
READ: Why Black America’s Battle With Mental Health Is Failing
What does this all mean for you?
It seems we now have to consider mental health as inextricably linked to physical health and vice versa. This includes an honest assessment of coping skills and daily functioning. Questions that probe this connection are necessary to avoid possible “blind spots” in our evaluations of others and ourselves. Likewise, we can no longer look at race and make blanket assumptions about how someone should manage or take care of themselves. Going to church, while helpful to some, will not work for everyone.
Building on our inherent resilience is a good start. If you understand that the strength of a people depends on their ability to cultivate new skills and seek the support of others, then you are absolutely right!
Visit the BlackDoctor.org Mental Health center for more.
Dr. Anissa Moody is a psychologist and educator in New York City. She has published papers and given talks on the practice of mental hygiene and the social constructions of race, health, and gender among many topics. By sharing her expertise on current topics, Dr. Moody aims to raise awareness of mental health and highlight the importance of mental hygiene in enriching people’s lives. If you have questions or comments about this article, Tweet her @Frame_OfMind.