Last updated on July 25, 2022
This July marks the 14th annual observance of BIPOC Mental Health Month. This important campaign brings awareness to the mental health experiences, health care disparities and concerns specific to individuals who identify as Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color (BIPOC).
Although anyone can be affected by mental health issues, barriers to accessing mental health treatment are real, specifically for members of diverse racial or ethnic groups. These may include financial or insurance concerns, stigma about mental health or mental health treatment, lack of trust in health care providers, lack of culturally competent providers and language differences.
Racism and Mental Trauma
According to Mental Health America, racism may cause mental health issues. Racism could cause trauma that may be overlooked by mental health providers.
Not all forms of racism are obvious — bias against people of color may be subtle.
- Avoiding interaction with someone of color due to ignorance or fear
- Fewer financial opportunities such as not approving loans or imposing higher interest rates
- Peer incarceration
- Minimizing contributions of people of color in history curricula
- Racial profiling
Upcoming BIPOC Panel
Join us for an online panel discussion about mental health in relation to people of color. Panelists include students and counseling professionals from Dallas College who will discuss their experiences and the unique struggles and barriers for people of color as they attempt to access mental health services. This event is open to the community.
When Numbers Talk: BIPOC and Mental Health
Wednesday, July 27, from 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Click this Webex Link at the event start time to join the conversation: https://dallascollege.webex.com/dallascollege/j.php?MTID=m2092225695392990830d083da2be2170
How To Get Support
It’s important to check in with your mental health! If you, a friend or a classmate are struggling with your mental health, we encourage you to pursue the free mental health counseling services provided by our professional counselors. Contact counseling@dallascollege.edu to request an appointment.
Learn more about racism and mental health on the Mental Health America website.