Mental health concerns are prevalent among two-thirds of the black community, according to a recent survey, suggesting that consulting with mental health professionals could be beneficial.
A new survey by NHS England reveals that nearly two-thirds (66%) of individuals from Black communities have expressed concerns about their mental health within the last year. Furthermore, almost 4 in 10 (39%) of those questioned disclosed experiencing depression, while over a quarter (27%) have battled generalised anxiety disorder.
However, the survey also indicates that roughly three-quarters (77%) of Black community members who sought professional assistance for anxiety or depression reported improved mental health. In light of these findings, the NHS encourages anyone grappling with feelings of depression or anxiety to seek help via NHS Talking Therapies services – free, confidential treatments delivered by trained clinicians, accessible via online, phone, or in-person sessions.
Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, and discussing it with family and friends can sometimes be challenging, especially among men in the community. Talking Therapies can offer a welcoming outlet, allowing individuals to discuss their troubles with someone they don't know.
Sharon Black, a Senior Counsellor and Interpersonal Psychotherapist with NHS Talking Therapies, emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health concerns: "Anxiety and depression can have a profound impact on our lives, but talking to a trained professional can help." She adds, "Our therapists are here to support you, providing an outlet to discuss personal issues that you might not want to raise with friends and family."
Actor and producer Nicholas Pinnock shares a similar sentiment, acknowledging that seeking therapeutic support was essential in helping him manage his depression: "Addressing mental illness was something my community and those I knew wouldn't speak about when I was in my early 30s. It's crucial to support initiatives like Talking Therapies, as speaking with a professional can provide the necessary tools to help manage each day."
Moreover, the survey revealed that over half (57%) of Black individuals were unaware that they could directly refer themselves to NHS Talking Therapies online for help with anxiety and depression. It is not necessary to have a diagnosed mental health issue to refer oneself to an NHS Talking Therapies service, and both online self-referral and GP referrals are available. For those who have English as a second language, Talking Therapies can be facilitated by multi-lingual therapists or confidential interpreters.
Studies indicate a need for psychotherapy services tailored to meet the unique needs of Black and ethnic minority groups, as recovery rates for these individuals in NHS Talking Therapies are lower than those for White-British users. Improving cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and accessibility in therapies can help achieve better outcomes for the Black community.
New investments in mindfulness-based therapies and other areas with gaps in service delivery are being called for to enhance outcomes and reduce disparities in mental health care. Initiatives like the Learning and Action Network aim to address health disparities faced by Black, Asian, and ethnic minority communities, which include improving access to culturally appropriate mental health services.
Overall, the NHS Talking Therapies program can help address common mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, stress, and fear of social situations, among others. Interested individuals can self-refer online at nhs.uk/talk or request a referral from their GP.
- The survey results from NHS England show that many individuals from the Black community are concerned about their mental health, with nearly two-thirds expressing concerns within the last year.
- Sharon Black, a Senior Counsellor with NHS Talking Therapies, stresses the importance of addressing mental health concerns and notes that therapists in the service are available to support individuals in discussing personal issues they might not want to raise with friends and family.
- NHS Talking Therapies offers treatments delivered by trained clinicians, accessible via online, phone, or in-person sessions, free and confidential, and can be an effective means of managing mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
- Improving cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and accessibility in mental health services can help achieve better outcomes for the Black community, as studies indicate a need for psychotherapy services tailored to meet the unique needs of Black and ethnic minority groups.
