The word “minority” might be confusing, and that is OK. Minority refers to people who are Black, Indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC). BIPOC people have a higher risk of having a mental illness. BIPOC people have historically and presently had to deal with stress and unfairness.
Also, they very often have limited access to proper health care. This contributes to anxiety and depression. When BIPOC people want to get help, they often have a harder time finding support. Here are some things that can be done.
Individual Level
- Encourage talking about mental health
- Share resources with friends, family, and other individuals.
- Learn about harmful words.
- Attend diverse events.
Systemic Level
- Make mental health cheaper.
- Work with BIPOC groups to create more safe spaces.
- Teach mental health and other health care professionals about diversity issues.
- Increase the number of BIPOC counselors and therapists.
Microaggressions
Microaggressions are defined as indirect, subtle, or unintentional discrimination against members of a marginalized group. BIPOC people experience these every day. Microaggressions can happen in schools, restaurants, and at social events (games, parties, etc).
Examples of microaggressions include:
- “Can I touch your hair?”
- “Where are you from?”
- “You talk well for someone like you.”
- “You’re being angry.”
What to do when a microaggression happens to you?
- Ask for clearness.
- Remember the person may not know what they did wrong.
- Seek out help as needed.
What if you perpetrate a microaggression?
- Apologize to the person you have hurt and respect their feelings.
- Keep seeking help to decrease the chances of this happening again.
- Learn more about diverse groups.
Resources:
About the Author: Kelly Wallace is a professional counselor, marriage and family therapist, adjunct professor and doctoral graduate at Drexel University. He also works to reduce the stigmatization and oppression on gender, gender identity, sexuality, and sexual orientation.
