Black History Month: Caroline Adewole

As part of Black History Month, we wanted to share a message from one of Nafsiyat's therapists, Caroline Adewole, on the work still to be done to ensure mental health equity for all:

"It is crucial for mental health support for Black and Asian communities to address historical and ongoing systemic barriers to accessing care. In our work at Nafsiyat Intercultural Centre, we see persistent evidence that racism, generational trauma, and ongoing discrimination profoundly impact the mental well-being of individuals from the Global Majority. Disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and overall care, along with economic constraints, cultural stigma, and lack of trust in healthcare systems, limit access. An underrepresentation of Black therapists further reduces culturally competent support.

To drive meaningful change, it's crucial to prioritise culturally informed care by improving access to training for Blacks and Asians to increase diversity in the mental health profession, providing comprehensive cultural competency training for all providers, and enhancing the affordability and accessibility of mental health services in underserved Black communities.

Addressing the issue of individuals with complex trauma being shifted between facilities due to insufficient resources is also crucial. Building trust can be addressed through community-led initiatives, such as collaborating with Black and Asian faith community settings, schools, and local organisations to combat stigma and promote help-seeking. Integrating mental health education into schools and community centres would promote early intervention and create a foundation of support for younger generations. Platforms like online therapy and peer support groups should be expanded to provide spaces for Black individuals to discuss mental health challenges without fear of judgment, fostering a supportive mental health landscape for the young and elderly alike."