NAMI NC joins in the celebration of Black History Month in honor of achievements by African Americans throughout U.S. history. While much has been accomplished, struggles remain for Black mental health.

While negative attitudes and beliefs towards people who live with mental health conditions are pervasive within the U.S., they can be particularly strong within the Black community. One study showed that 63% of Black people believe that a mental health condition is a sign of personal weakness. While there are other factors, overcoming or even reducing this stigma, is a big step towards improving the rate of treatment for those experiencing mental illness conditions. Click here for more informationabout structural challenges members of the Black community may face and ways to seek culturally competent care.