July Is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

July was designated as Minority Mental Health Awareness Month in 2008 by the United States Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health (OMH) to bring awareness to the unique struggles that underrepresented groups face in regard to mental illness in the United States.

While the term ‘minority’ is traditionally associated with racial, ethnic, or cultural minorities within the US, many organizations have focused on expanding this term to include individuals from a wide range of marginalized and underserved communities — including those who may identify as part of the LGBTQ+ spectrum, refugee and immigrant groups, religious groups, and others who are often overlooked.

Making this term more inclusive broadens our way of thinking and underscores the need to address mental health issues with a unique lens while integrating the varied needs of diverse communities.

Through efforts such as this, the goal is to shed light on the multitude of mental health experiences within these communities.

Visit the OMH website for much more information, or Dial 211 to learn about Minority Mental Health Services available in our area.