Black History Month & Importance of Mental Health

As we celebrate Black History Month this February, we reflect on the generations of African Americans who have struggled with adversity.

According to the Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, Black adults in the U.S. are more likely than white adults to report persistent symptoms of emotional distress, such as sadness, hopelessness and feeling like everything is an effort. Black adults living below the poverty line are more than twice as likely to report serious psychological distress than those with more financial security.

Despite the needs, only one in three Black adults who need mental health care receive it. The Mental Health and Recovery Board of Portage County is committed to working to provide services to the African-American citizens of Portage County who need them.

If you or a loved one is struggling, reach out for help. Connect with a trusted friend, spiritual leader, or health care provider. The Portage County helpline is available anytime a person needs to talk or in need of resources. Call 330-678-HELP (4357).

John Garrity, PhD Executive Director Mental Health & Recovery Board of Portage County