Mental illness is a widespread issue affecting individuals from all backgrounds. However, research indicates a significant mental health disparity within minority communities due to a lack of treatment. According to data from the United States Department of Health and Human Services, black Americans are more likely than white adults to report mental health struggles while only one in three receive treatment. Meanwhile, a report showed 35 percent of Hispanic/Latin adults received treatment for mental health issues every year, compared to the United States average of 46 percent. The disparity is also found in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. A similar report found approximately 21 percent of Asian adults with a mental illness received treatment in 2020, the lowest rate of racial/ethnic backgrounds.

This blog explores four reasons behind the undertreatment of mental illness in these communities and highlights the barriers people face.

1. Socioeconomic Barriers to Mental Health Services

Socioeconomic disparities significantly limit access to mental health services. Some minority communities frequently experience higher poverty rates and lower income levels compared to the general population. Limited financial resources make it difficult to afford mental healthcare, including therapy, medication and other essential treatments. Additionally, a lack of health insurance or underinsurance exacerbates the problem, making it challenging for individuals to access necessary care.

2. Cultural Stigmas

Cultural stigmas surrounding mental illness also play a crucial role in the mental health disparity we see in minority communities. In many cultures, mental health issues are stigmatized and perceived as a sign of weakness or personal failure. This stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help or openly discussing their mental health concerns. Fear of judgment, discrimination or negative social consequences creates significant barriers to treatment, leading to the underutilization of mental healthcare services.

3. Systemic and Cultural Barriers

Systemic and cultural barriers also present a significant challenge for minorities seeking mental health services. That’s why initiatives focusing on diversity and inclusion are so important in the healthcare marketplace. If a patient is constantly encountering language barriers and other signs of cultural ignorance within their chosen provider, they are less likely to develop trust in that provider and may feel discriminated against. In fact, language-based discrimination is a serious problem in the mental health field, according to a 2023 study, performed by the not-for-profit Rand Corporation. The study, involving nearly 400 mental health crisis clinics in California, found nearly one in five Spanish-speaking callers were hung up on or told no one could assist them – even though an estimated 28 percent of California residents speak Spanish at home. It’s critical for mental healthcare providers to build trust in minority communities if they are to treat the mental health challenges they face. They can do this by adopting the initiatives on diversity and inclusion discussed earlier. These initiatives can give employees a greater cultural understanding of their patient population, allowing mental health professionals to address cultural stigmas, navigate religious differences and break down language barriers more effectively.

4. Lack of Awareness

The simplest reason minority communities may lack mental health treatment is because they don’t know about the resources available to them. Language barriers play another pivotal role in this problem. If mental healthcare providers don’t address these language barriers in their promotional and marketing materials, the message won’t reach the community.

It Takes a Comprehensive Approach

Addressing the under-treatment of mental illness in minority communities requires a comprehensive approach involving increased access to affordable and culturally competent care, raising awareness, reducing stigma, and ensuring adequate funding for mental health resources.  By tackling these issues, we can create a more equitable and supportive mental healthcare system for all.

Chapters Health System is committed to serving the needs of its patients, families, caregivers, health providers, partners, and communities.

For more information, please call our helpful Chapters Health and HospiceHelp24^® team at 1.866.204.8611 or Contact Us.