Quick Summary:
Even though Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) experience mental health issues at the same rate as white people, cultural barriers, stigmas, lack of access, and other challenges can prevent them from seeking help. In this blog, we’ll examine different reasons BIPOC communities struggle to seek or secure appropriate mental health resources and how BIPOC individuals can better find the help they need.
Clinically Reviewed by Shy Warren, PMHNP-BC at MindGlow Health
When it comes to talking openly about mental health issues, we’ve come a long way. For many people across different communities and backgrounds, mental health support is much more accessible today than it was years ago.
But for communities of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), access to mental healthcare remains challenging. Barriers like stigma, racism, cultural differences, and socio-economic factors can prevent BIPOC individuals from getting the help they need. Plus, many BIPOC communities feel misunderstood by providers who don’t share their cultural background or experiences. When only one in three Black Americans get mental health treatment, it’s time to break down barriers and evolve a mental health system that offers only one-size-fits-all care.
Why BIPOC Individuals Don’t Seek Mental Health Support
Stigma
For many minorities, a history of survival means one of resilience and self-reliance for generations. Seeking help for mental health issues can be viewed as a weakness or failure. Many communities don’t recognize mental illness as something requiring treatment. One study found that 63% of Black people believe that a mental health condition is a sign of personal weakness.
Geography and socioeconomics
For many BIPOC communities in rural or underserved urban areas, access is challenging. Traveling long distances or having the funds to get there is not always possible, especially for those who have limited time off from work. Higher rates of poverty in some BIPOC communities mean mental health care is not an option. Even though online mental health options make care more accessible for many, studies have found that, even controlling for geography and other factors, Black and Hispanic individuals receive less telemedicine.
Lack of insurance
Financial barriers and lack of insurance prevent many BIPOC individuals from getting the help they need. In the US, nearly 20% of Hispanic people and more than 10% of Black people are uninsured, compared to 6% of white people. Without insurance, mental health treatments can be expensive and seen as a luxury, not a necessary health care need.
Language and cultural differences
Starting therapy can be an overwhelming process when you’ve never tried it before. Now imagine trying it when your provider doesn’t speak your language or know anything about your culture. How can you connect with this person and have them relate to what you’re going through?
Language differences make it difficult for anyone trying to express their feelings. That can lead to reduced engagement and trust, as well as misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
Lack of culturally aware providers
For mental health care providers, the importance of cultural competence cannot be overstated. Seeing a provider who does not actively work to understand your background, incorporate your culture into your treatment, or strive to make you feel comfortable can lead to a breakdown in care.
How can BIPOC communities get the help they need?
No matter your racial or cultural background, getting support for your mental health shouldn’t feel out of reach, and it doesn’t have to. Culturally competent providers understand that healing doesn’t look the same for everyone, so finding what works for you is key. Here are a few ways to start prioritizing your well-being:
Put your mental health on your to-do list.
Prioritize rest, boundaries, joy, movement, and reflection. That’s self-care, and it’s necessary, not optional.
Lean on your community.
Whether it’s family, friends, church, or support groups, community can be a source of strength and connection when things feel heavy.
Honor your culture.
Our cultural traditions hold wisdom. From faith and storytelling to movement, music, and food, these are valid sources of healing, too.
Find a provider who sees you.
Look for mental health professionals who are culturally competent, people who understand your lived experience, who won’t minimize your background, and who make space for your voice.
“Navigating mental health in BIPOC communities comes with its own set of challenges, and I don’t take that lightly. I’m intentional about creating a space where my clients feel safe being fully themselves. That means we’re not just talking about diagnoses, we’re talking about life, culture, and what’s happening in the world around us. I’m genuinely curious about how they view therapy, support, and healing. For me, it’s always a two-way conversation. We explore cultural differences, spiritual beliefs, and even healing modalities beyond traditional talk therapy. Being culturally competent means respecting and embracing the many ways people care for their mental and emotional well-being.”
– Shy Warren, PMHNP-BC at MindGlow Health
Everyone deserves to feel better
No matter your background and where you find yourself on your mental health journey, MindGlow Health has providers with the experience, knowledge, and the cultural competence to provide you with compassionate, customized care. We know one size does not fit all. You deserve to feel better. Learn more about our services and start feeling happier and healthier today.
