Mental Health Services: The Struggle Minority Groups Face When Seeking Access
The percentage of people who suffer from mental health disorders is relatively consistent across most racial and ethnic groups. However, if you are BIPOC or another racial or ethnic minority, you are far less likely to receive mental health services than your white counterparts. In 2015, for example, 48 percent of whites suffering from mental illness received behavioral health treatment, while only 31 percent of their Black and LatinX counterparts—and only 22 percent of their Asian counterparts—received similar help.
The Reasons for the Disparity in Mental Health Services
If the rates of mental illness between white and BIPOC individuals are similar, we would hope that both white and BIPOC individuals would have the same level of access to mental health services. That is, unfortunately, not the case. A few of the most significant reasons for the gap include:
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- Lack of cultural understanding by health providers. Cultural differences between the provider and the patient can create confusion, and lead to misdiagnosis of mental illness. Among the common causes of cultural misunderstanding include language barriers and the unique cultural presentation of a patient’s behavioral health symptoms.
- Stigmas attached to mental health in specific communities. In certain communities, acknowledging mental health concerns may come with a certain stigma, which can prevent people from seeking the help they need in the first place.
- Lack of health insurance. Many Americans do not have health insurance and avoid going to the doctor unless absolutely necessary. The rate of uninsured is higher amongst American Indians, and Latinx, and lowest amongst whites and Asian Americans.
Despite these barriers, getting help for your mental health condition is extremely important. Speaking with a mental health professional and receiving an appropriate level of medical treatment can help improve your life in many ways. Your mental healthcare provider may suggest talk therapy, prescribe antidepressant medications, or even refer you to a ketamine clinic to receive ketamine infusions. The important thing is that you take the first step and reach out for help.
Contact Tahoe Ketamine
Tahoe Ketamine offers a wide variety of treatments for people with depression and other mental health issues. Contact us today to learn more about ketamine infusions or IV hydration therapy, or to schedule an appointment.
