MHA KY BIPOC Mental Health Month

2022 Theme: Beyond The Numbers

Mental Health America recognizes that Black, Indigenous, and people of color have rich histories that go #BeyondTheNumbers. While there are stories of resilience born out of oppression, persecution, and abuse, there is immeasurable strength in each of these cultures. In an increasingly diversified America, we acknowledge the specificity of individual and group experiences and how it relates to their beliefs and well-being. BIPOC communities are significantly more likely to develop mental health conditions, and one of the major barriers to mental health treatment is access and the need for understanding mental health support. #BeyondTheNumbers explores the nuances and uniqueness in BIPOC communities.

 

This year’s theme for BIPOC Mental Health Month is #BeyondTheNumbers. Join us and together, we will gain knowledge on historical context, systems of support, and actionable ways to move forward toward a mentally healthy future.

Links from 2020 BIPOC Mental Health

2018-2019

July was designated as Minority Mental Health Awareness Month in 2008 to bring awareness to the unique struggles that underrepresented groups face in regard to mental illness in the United States (US).

While the term ‘minority’ is traditionally associated with racial, ethnic, or cultural minorities within the US, Mental Health America (MHA) is focused on expanding this term to include individuals from a wide-range of marginalized and underserved communities, including those who may identify as part of the LGBTQ+ spectrum, refugee and immigrant groups, religious groups, and others who are often overlooked.

By making this term more inclusive, we are broadening our way of thinking and underscoring the need to address mental health issues with a unique lens while integrating the varied needs of diverse communities.

Through our efforts, we aim to shed light on the multitude of mental health experiences within these communities.

Beyond The Numbers

BIPOC Mental Health Month

BIPOC Mental Health Month – Black, Indigenous, People of Color Mental Health Month – began under this name in 2020. “Minority” had long been an antiquated and even derogatory term in modern vernacular and the racial unrest in 2019 and 2020 gave prominence and preference to the BIPOC term. What hasn’t changed is that BIPOC face unique challenges and disparities in daily life which affect their mental health. BIPOC also face many health disparities in Kentucky and the United States which must be understood, challenged and addressed.

 

Download the Minority Mental Health Month Toolkit.

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Mental Illnesses are brain-based conditions that affect thinking, emotions, and behaviors. Since we all have brains – having some kind of mental health problem during your life is really common. No matter what kind of mental health problem someone is facing, it is always possible to get better. If you think you’re experiencing a mental illness, try to find any kind of support earlier than later. Like other illness, treating mental illnesses early can help you get better faster.

We welcome the opportunity to assist you! We are available via phone, text, and email most weekdays. Please call 859.684.7778 or email mhaky@mhaky.org if you have urgent questions that are not covered here at this time!

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