NABC stands firm against conflict and its devastating impact on mental health, wherever it occurs. From the tragedies in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo to what is currently happening in Gaza, NABC's message transcends geographical boundaries.

Beyond Geography: A Moral Imperative

NABC recognizes that prolonged conflicts create humanitarian catastrophes. Violence, displacement, and trauma leave countless individuals and families struggling. The mental and emotional toll is immeasurable.

As mental health professionals, NABC feels a profound moral and professional duty to address these issues. They believe in the power of healing and resilience, but true healing can only occur in a peaceful environment.

Action Speaks Louder Than Words: NABC's Strategies

NABC goes beyond mere words. Our commitment translates into concrete actions:

Raising Awareness: Shedding light on the often-overlooked mental health consequences of conflict is crucial. NABC works to bring global attention to the psychological and emotional suffering of survivors and witnesses.

Advocacy for Peace: NABC actively advocates for increased humanitarian aid, peace negotiations, and conflict resolution efforts. They recognize that lasting peace is essential for the well-being of those affected.

Empowering Local Professionals: NABC equips local mental health professionals in conflict zones with resources, training, and guidance on trauma-informed care. This empowers these professionals to provide much-needed support to their communities.

Collaboration is Key: NABC understands that tackling these complex issues requires a united front. They actively seek collaboration with anyone who shares their commitment to mental health and peacebuilding.

Racial and Cultural Sensitivity: NABC acknowledges how racial and cultural factors can exacerbate the impact of conflict. They emphasize addressing these issues with sensitivity and cultural competence.

A Call to Action: Our Collective Voice for Peace

NABC's message is a call to action for all mental health professionals, especially Black counselors who understand the weight of racial and cultural disparities in times of conflict.

NABC condemns genocide, in all its forms, and urges its members to use their voices. Speak out against violence. Advocate for peace. Let decision-makers hear our collective call for a world where mental health and well-being are valued and prioritized, regardless of background or the horrors endured.

Together, we can create a world where lasting peace allows for healing and a brighter future for all.

Western societies have long been shaped by dominant cultural, economic, and political structures that influence individual and collective behaviors. Understanding how these structural systems, including hegemony, cognitive dissonance, and displaced anger, intersect with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts is crucial for promoting mental health and fostering a more equitable society.

Hegemony and its Role in DEI and Mental Health

Hegemony refers to the dominance of one group over others, often maintained through the control of cultural narratives and institutions. In Western societies, hegemonic ideologies can perpetuate norms that marginalize and oppress certain groups, leading to feelings of alienation and diminished mental well-being.

For example, hegemonic ideals of beauty, success, and worthiness may exclude individuals who do not fit conventional standards, leading to body image issues, low self-esteem, and other mental health challenges.

Cognitive Dissonance and its Impact on DEI and Mental Health

Cognitive dissonance occurs when individuals hold conflicting beliefs or attitudes, leading to psychological discomfort. In the context of DEI, cognitive dissonance can arise when individuals espouse values of equality and inclusion but fail to recognize or address their own biases or privileges.

This internal conflict can contribute to feelings of guilt, shame, or denial, impacting mental health and hindering progress towards more inclusive attitudes and behaviors.

Displaced Anger and DEI

Displaced anger occurs when individuals redirect their anger towards a less threatening target, often due to feelings of powerlessness or frustration. In the context of DEI, displaced anger can manifest as resistance to diversity initiatives or hostility towards marginalized groups.

This can create a hostile work or social environment, exacerbating mental health issues and impeding efforts to create more inclusive spaces.

Promoting Mental Health and DEI in Western Structural Systems

Addressing the impact of hegemony, cognitive dissonance, and displaced anger on DEI and mental health requires a proactive and inclusive approach. Key strategies include:

1. Education and Awareness: Increasing understanding of structural systems and their impact on mental health can help individuals recognize and challenge oppressive norms.

2. Empathy and Perspective-Taking: Encouraging empathy and perspective-taking can help individuals recognize their own biases and privilege, fostering more inclusive attitudes and behaviors.

3. Community Building: Creating supportive communities that value diversity and inclusion can provide a sense of belonging and support mental health.

4. Advocacy and Allyship: Engaging in advocacy and allyship can help challenge systemic inequalities and create more equitable spaces for all.

By recognizing the role of Western structural systems in shaping attitudes and behaviors, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and mentally healthy society for everyone.

In a truly meritocratic society, success would be determined solely by an individual's abilities and efforts. However, the reality is far from this ideal. Patriarchy, capitalism, and the myth of meritocracy intersect to create a system built on partiality, favoritism, and preference based on various factors such as gender, race, ethnicity, socio-economic class, sexuality, and religion. This system not only perpetuates inequality but also has a profound impact on mental health.

One of the fundamental aspects of a meritocracy is the absence of inherited wealth and privilege. In such a system, all individuals would start on an equal playing field, with the same access to resources and opportunities. However, this is far from the reality in the United States, where generational wealth and privilege play a significant role in determining one's success. Families pass down wealth, connections, and opportunities, creating a system where success is often predetermined by birth.

Those who believe in the myth of meritocracy often come from marginalized or disadvantaged backgrounds. They are led to believe that hard work alone will lead to success, despite the systemic barriers they face. This belief is perpetuated by the occasional success story of someone who "made it" against the odds. However, these stories often overlook the privilege and advantages that enabled their success, such as access to capital or influential connections.

Individuals like Ben Carson or Clarence Thomas, who are often held up as examples of meritocratic success, are more accurately examples of individuals who were favored and placed in positions of advantage. They were able to take advantage of programs and opportunities that are often out of reach for most people due to their circumstances.

The pursuit of success as defined by societal standards can have a detrimental impact on mental health. Constantly being bombarded with images and ideas of what one "should" have or be can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. The pressure to succeed in a system that is inherently unfair and biased can take a toll on one's well-being.

It is crucial that we redefine success on our own terms and challenge the myth of meritocracy. Success should not be measured by societal standards but by our own values and goals. By recognizing the systemic barriers that exist and working to dismantle them, we can create a more equitable society that values the inherent worth and dignity of every individual.

The societal construct of masculinity, particularly for Black men, has been deeply influenced by historical injustices and systemic racism. Rooted in a western definition of masculinity that emphasizes virility, aggression, protection, and provision, this construct has created unrealistic expectations and a sense of competition among men. However, this definition fails to account for the unique challenges and experiences faced by Black men.

Systemic racism has disproportionately affected Black men, leading to lower rates of employment, earnings, and educational attainment. Black men have had to contend with incarceration, lynching, and social isolation, which have hindered their ability to fulfill traditional masculine roles. The pursuit of this form of masculinity has damaging effects on Black men's mental health and ripples throughout the Black community.

As Black men are denied their positions as "men" according to hegemonic standards, based in Western ideas of masculinity, they often seek out other avenues to affirm their masculinity. One of the ways in which Black men may seek to assert their masculinity is through relationships within the Black community. However, the impact of the patriarchy on Black men's sense of self-worth and identity can lead to strained relationships and a lack of trust within the community. As Black men are denied their positions as "men" according to hegemonic standards, they may seek validation and affirmation in unhealthy ways.

The pursuit of this form of masculinity can have damaging effects on the mental health of Black men. The constant pressure to prove oneself as a man, coupled with the societal barriers that limit opportunities for success, can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. Furthermore, the emphasis on Western traditional masculine traits can contribute to unhealthy behaviors and practices, as Black men seek out alternative avenues to affirm their masculinity.

However, traditionally African American men defined their maleness through their sense of self, family, and community. They also drew on spirituality and humanism as defining aspects of their masculinity. For African Americans, masculinity is defined by maturity, responsibility, being a provider, and being self-aware. This definition challenges the narrow constraints of hegemonic masculinity and offers a more holistic and empowering understanding of what it means to be a man.

By reimagining masculinity in this way, Black men can reclaim their sense of self-worth and identity, and cultivate healthier relationships within their community.

It is essential for Black men to continue to challenge the societal construct of masculinity and define it in a way that is affirming and empowering. By embracing a definition of masculinity that is rooted in self-awareness, responsibility, and community, Black men can break free from the damaging effects of the patriarchy and work towards true liberation and empowerment.

By acknowledging the intersectionality of race and gender and recognizing the impact of systemic racism on their lives, Black men can begin to cultivate a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of masculinity. This, in turn, can lead to healthier relationships, both within the Black community and beyond, and a greater sense of self-acceptance and resilience.

The impact of Western standards of beauty and femininity on black women is a topic of deep significance, affecting how they perceive themselves, how others view them, and their mental health. For centuries, black women have been subjected to harmful stereotypes and societal expectations that have shaped their experiences and perceptions of femininity.

From the time of slavery in the United States to the present day, black women have faced unique challenges and pressures related to Western standards of beauty and femininity. These standards, rooted in a history of colonialism and racism, have had a profound impact on how black women view themselves, how they are viewed by others, and their mental health.

One of the most enduring stereotypes about black women is that they are masculine based on Western standards of femininity and beauty. This stereotype has its roots in the colonial period, when slave owners justified their rape of black women by describing them as having insatiable appetites for sex. This dehumanizing portrayal of black women as hypersexual and lacking in femininity has persisted over the centuries, contributing to a culture that devalues and marginalizes them.

The legacy of slavery and discrimination has also shaped the way black women are viewed in relation to labor and work. Black women have never had the luxury of being damsels in distress or solely dependent on black men to take care of them. During slavery, black women worked side-by-side with black men in the fields and were expected to produce as much as their male counterparts. Even after slavery ended, societal structures were put in place to force black women into domestic work to support their white counterparts.

Despite these challenges, black women have always been at the forefront of the labor market, with higher levels of labor market participation compared to white women. This can be attributed not only to societal expectations of black women's gainful employment but also to labor market discrimination against black men, which resulted in lower wages and less stable employment compared to white men

These experiences have had a profound impact on how black women view themselves and their place in society. Many black women feel that normative femininity places them at a disadvantage, both in comparison to white women and in the eyes of men.

The lack of support women of color receive from white women, exemplified by the experiences of writer Mikki Kendall who developed the hashtag #SolidarityisforWhiteWomen. This lack of solidarity underscores the challenges faced by black women in navigating femininity within predominantly white feminist spaces.

Research has shown that black women who internalize these negative stereotypes have lower self-esteem. Furthermore, the perception that lighter-skinned women have more and better access to social, professional, and educational opportunities has influenced the way many women of color view themselves. This belief, rooted in colorism, has a direct impact on their psychological well-being.

As clinicians, it is essential to be aware of these issues and to support black women in unpacking their thoughts and feelings about beauty and femininity. This may involve helping them challenge harmful stereotypes, build self-esteem, and develop a positive self-image. It is also important to create a safe and inclusive space where black women feel heard and supported.

In conclusion, the impact of Western standards of beauty and femininity on black women is profound and multifaceted. By acknowledging and addressing these issues, clinicians can play a crucial role in supporting black women in their journey towards self-acceptance and mental well-being.

April marks National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about sexual violence and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. One critical aspect often overlooked in these discussions is the profound effect sexual assault can have on mental health.

Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that can lead to a range of mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Survivors may struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, and fear, impacting their self-esteem and ability to trust others. These emotional challenges can significantly impact daily life and relationships.

It's essential to recognize the signs of mental health issues in survivors and provide them with the support and resources they need. Counseling and therapy can be instrumental in helping survivors process their experiences, manage their symptoms, and regain a sense of control and empowerment.

As mental health professionals, advocates, and allies, we must work together to create a safe and supportive environment for survivors. This includes providing trauma-informed care, promoting healthy relationships and boundaries, and challenging societal norms that perpetuate sexual violence.

During National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, let's recommit ourselves to supporting survivors, raising awareness, and promoting mental health and healing. Together, we can create a world where sexual violence is not tolerated, and all individuals can live free from fear and trauma.

If you or someone you know is a survivor of sexual assault and struggling with mental health issues, please know that help is available. Contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit www.rainn.org for support and resources.

In the realm of mental health, the concepts of Black excellence and Black elitism take on a unique significance, particularly in the context of therapy. As Black therapists, it is crucial to understand these concepts and their impact on our clients and communities.

Black excellence is often perceived as individual achievement in education, capitalism, athleticism, and celebrity. However, true Black excellence transcends these narrow definitions. It is about collective upliftment, community empowerment, and cultural advancement. It is about building and supporting each other, challenging systemic barriers, and celebrating our diverse talents and experiences.

On the other hand, what is sometimes labeled as Black excellence can be better understood as Black elitism. Black elitism, in contrast to Black excellence, is exclusionary, divisive, and can perpetuate harmful ideologies. It can involve conforming to dominant norms, distancing oneself from parts of the community deemed unacceptable, and aligning with oppressive systems like misogyny, bigotry, patriarchy, and capitalism.

As Black therapists, we must be aware of these dynamics and their impact on the mental and emotional health of our clients. The pressure to conform to elitist standards can create feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and internalized racism, especially among those who may already be vulnerable due to lack of access to resources or other systemic barriers.

Our role as Black therapists is not only to provide clinical support but also to challenge these harmful narratives and promote a more inclusive and community-oriented approach to mental health. We must strive to create a safe space for our clients to explore their identities, challenge societal norms, and build resilience against the pressures of Black elitism.

By understanding and addressing these issues, we can play a crucial role in supporting the mental and emotional well-being of our clients and communities. We can help them navigate the complexities of identity, challenge oppressive systems, and strive for true Black excellence that is inclusive, empowering, and uplifting for all.

As we commemorate Social Work Month, it is crucial to acknowledge the profound contributions of black social workers to the field. Black social workers have been instrumental in advocating for social justice, equity, and the rights of marginalized communities. Their dedication and commitment to serving others have left a lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities across the nation.

One of the significant contributions of black social workers is their commitment to culturally competent practice. They understand the unique experiences and challenges faced by black individuals and communities and work tirelessly to ensure that services are tailored to meet their specific needs. This includes addressing issues such as racial discrimination, poverty, and access to healthcare and education.

Black social workers have also been at the forefront of advocating for policy changes that address systemic inequities. They have worked tirelessly to dismantle discriminatory practices in child welfare, criminal justice, and healthcare systems, advocating for policies that promote equity and social justice for all.

In addition to their advocacy work, black social workers have made significant contributions to the development of social work theory and practice. Figures like Whitney M. Young Jr., Dorothy Height, and Ida B. Wells have influenced the field with their insights into the intersections of race, class, and gender and how they impact social welfare.

As we celebrate Social Work Month, let us not only honor the contributions of all social workers but also recognize the unique and invaluable contributions of black social workers. Their dedication, passion, and advocacy have helped to shape the field of social work and create a more just and equitable society for all.

In honor of Women's History Month, NABC would like to shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements and contributions of black women in the field of mental health. Despite facing numerous obstacles, these trailblazers have not only broken barriers but have also paved the way for future generations. Their courage, resilience, and dedication have significantly impacted the field, ensuring that mental health is given the attention it deserves.

1. Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark: Our journey begins with Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark, a pioneering psychologist who played a pivotal role in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. Her research on the effects of segregation on African American children's self-esteem and identity formed the foundation for desegregating schools and promoting equality. Dr. Clark's work highlighted the importance of mental well-being in the fight for civil rights (Brown v. Board of Education, 1954; Clark & Clark, 1947).

2. Dr. Francis Cress Welsing: Next, we honor the extraordinary contributions of Dr. Francis Cress Welsing, a psychiatrist and author who brought attention to the psychological effects of racism and oppression. Her groundbreaking theory, known as the Cress Theory of Color Confrontation, explored how societal factors impact the mental health of African Americans. Dr. Welsing's work continues to inspire critical discussions about race and mental well-being (Welsing, 1991).

3. Dr. Joy DeGruy: Another notable figure is Dr. Joy DeGruy, a renowned researcher and educator known for her work on intergenerational trauma and the impact of slavery on African American communities. Her book, "Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome," sheds light on the lasting psychological effects of slavery and provides a framework for healing. Dr. DeGruy's insights have played a vital role in promoting mental health awareness and fostering resilience within the black community (DeGruy, 2005).

4. Dr. Angela Davis: No discussion of black women's contributions to mental health would be complete without mentioning Dr. Angela Davis. While she is primarily recognized as an activist and scholar, her work has touched on the intersections of race, gender, and mental health. Dr. Davis has consistently advocated for social justice, challenging the systemic inequalities that contribute to mental health disparities (Davis, 1981).

As we celebrate Women's History Month, it is crucial to recognize the invaluable contributions of black women to the field of mental health. Through their groundbreaking research, advocacy, and resilience, these remarkable individuals have shattered barriers and brought attention to the unique challenges faced by African Americans. Their work continues to inspire and empower, ensuring that mental health remains a priority for all. Let us honor and celebrate these black women who have left an indelible mark on the field of mental health and strive to carry their legacy forward.

References:

Brown v. Board of Education, 347 U.S. 483 (1954).

Clark, K. B., & Clark, M. P. (1947). Racial identification and preference in Negro children. The Journal of Negro Education, 16(3), 341-350.

Davis, A. Y. (1981). Women, race & class. Random House.

DeGruy, J. (2005). Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome. Joy DeGruy Publications Inc.

As we continue our celebration of Black History Month, NABC delves into a critical chapter of Black mental health history—one that sheds light on the establishment of psychiatric facilities and the complex interplay between healthcare, race, and control. Today, we reflect on the Central State Lunatic Asylum and the Hospital for the Negro Insane of Maryland, institutions that underscore the systemic challenges faced by African Americans seeking mental health care.

Dr. Utsey's Quest for Truth:

Dr. Shawn Utsey, a distinguished professor in the Department of Psychology at the College of Humanities and Sciences, embarked on a profound journey to unravel the history of the Central State Lunatic Asylum for the Colored Insane. His documentary endeavors to expose the stark realities faced by African American individuals seeking mental health care during an era rife with racial prejudice and injustice.

Central State Lunatic Asylum: A Warehouse of Control and Punishment

In 1869, this asylum opened its doors, seemingly as a beacon of mental health care exclusively for African Americans. However, the grim truth, as Dr. Utsey uncovers, paints a different picture. The conditions within the Central State Lunatic Asylum mirrored warehouses—not designed for health reasons but as instruments of control and punishment. White physicians, some responsible for inventing psychiatric disorders like drapetomania, were paradoxically involved in the establishment of this facility.

Hospital for the Negro Insane of Maryland: A Farm Veiling Horrors

The Hospital for the Negro Insane in Crownsville, Maryland, presents a haunting paradox. From the outside, it resembled a farm, with patients engaging in seemingly productive activities. However, Antonia Hylton's investigative work reveals a starkly different narrative within its walls—a story of maltreatment and human rights violations. The idyllic exterior masked the harsh reality endured by African American patients seeking mental health care.

The Chilling Reality: Hospital for the Negro Insane of Maryland

In 1911, the Hospital for the Negro Insane opened in Crownsville, Maryland, presenting an idyllic farm-like exterior to the public. From the outside, the facility resembled a farm, with patients engaging in activities such as harvesting tobacco and working with cattle, giving the impression of a progressive approach to mental health care. However, the investigative work of Peabody award-winning NBC journalist Antonia Hylton exposed a different narrative within its walls. The hospital's interior hid stories of maltreatment, exploitation, and human rights violations, laying bare the systemic issues that plagued mental health care for Black individuals during this era.

The Continuing Journey:

As we navigate the historical corridors of Black mental health care, the NABC remains dedicated to amplifying these narratives. Dr. Utsey's documentary and Antonia Hylton's journalism underscore the importance of acknowledging the struggles of the past to pave the way for a more just and equitable future.

This Black History Month, let us honor the resilience of those who have faced the shadows of mental health care's history. NABC calls for continued advocacy, awareness, and the dismantling of systemic injustices within mental health care. By recognizing and learning from these historical truths, we empower ourselves to shape a future where mental health care is compassionate, inclusive, and free from discrimination.