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How Do Mental Health Conditions Affect the African American Community?

Michigan Chronicle (MI) - 8/26/2015

Although anyone can develop a mental health problem, African Americans sometimes experience more severe forms of mental health conditions due to unmet needs and other barriers.

According to the Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, African Americans are 20 percent more likely to experience serious mental health problems than the general population. Common mental health disorders among African Americans include:

* Major depression

*Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) *Suicide, among young African American men

* Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), because African Americans are more likely to be victims of violent crime African Americans are also more likely to experience certain factors that increase the risk for developing a mental health condition:

*Homelessness. People experiencing homelessness are at a greater risk of developing a mental health condition. African Americans make up 40 percent of the homeless population.

* Exposure to violence. Increases the risk of developing a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. African American children are more like to be exposed to violence than other children.

It is recommend you see a mental health professional since this is their area of expertise. If you do not feel comfortable right away, a primary care doctor is a great place to start. He or she may be able to start the assessment process to determine if you have a mental health condition or assist you in getting a referral to a mental health professional.

See more at https://www.nami.org/Find-Support/Diverse-Communities/African-Americans#sthash.OQUmDzFK.dpuf.