Black and Hispanic Americans Are More Likely to Be Struggling with Mental Health. Here’s what Employers and Communities Can Do

Forbes

Communities and workplaces are key settings for promoting mental health equity. A recent poll found Black and Hispanic respondents were more likely to report declines in mental health during the pandemic compared to their White peers. To address these disparities, experts are calling for culturally responsive local efforts to support the mental health of communities of color. One example is The Confess Project, a nonprofit that trains barbers in active listening, validation, and connecting clients with mental health resources. In the workplace, employers can create an environment where all staff feel safe reaching out for help. To reduce stigma and normalize conversations about mental health, leaders can talk openly about the topic, says diversity and inclusion consultant Tracy J. Edmonds. “When it comes to mental health and how it fits in with the inclusion conversation,” she said, “those of us who aren’t struggling with mental health have such a strong role to play in order to be the voice, be the ally, be the one who connects with those who may be struggling.”

Spark Extra! Find data on racial and ethnic disparities in suicide rates.