This year’s Black History Month theme is Black Resistance, and nowhere is that seen clearer than in the field of behavioral health. 

The stress and trauma of discrimination, the structural challenges to accessing behavioral health care and treatment, and enduring stigma surrounding mental illness all have a big impact on one’s long term recovery and psychological success. In a recent study, the Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health found that only 1 in 3 black adults with mental illness receive treatment, and black adults are more likely than their white counterparts to experience persistent emotional distress. Income levels also matter, as black adults living below the poverty line are 2x as likely to report serious mental health concerns than those living above the poverty line. 

Although change is slow, greater awareness of racial and income disparities in the world of mental health is leading to a broader discussion of, and increase in, culturally competent care. This is thanks to the tireless resilience of the black community and certain BIPOC pioneers who fought for increased behavioral health access and care for those who were historically overlooked. Let’s spotlight a few of these pioneers!

Bebe Moore Campbell

This incredible advocate, author, teacher, and journalist spent her career tirelessly highlighting the mental health needs of black and minority communities. As the founder of NAMI-Inglewood, she secured a safe space for her community to talk about their mental health concerns. She was recognized for her work in 2008 when Congress created Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Every July, this event brings awareness to the unique mental health struggles faced by minority groups in the US. 

Mamie Phipps Clark, PHD and Kenneth Bancroft Clark, PHD

This power couple spent their lives dedicated to improving behavioral health support for black children and adults. Their famous “Doll Study” was critical to the Supreme Court case Brown vs. The Board of Education, ending school segregation in the US. With a lifelong passion for making mental health support accessible to all, the Clarks opened The Northside Center for Child Development in Harlem, which is still actively providing psychological services to children today.

Maxie Clarence Maultsby, Jr, MD

Doctor, author, and the founder of rational behavior therapy, Dr. Maultsby conducted studies that were instrumental in recognizing self help as clinically useful. His technique was the first comprehensive, drug-free type of psychotherapy that successfully produced long-term results for his patients. He has written several books outlining his methods that are widely used by behavioral health professionals, therapists, and counselors. 

Despite often being overlooked by the history books, these pioneers used their intelligence, bravery, and resilience to better the field of behavioral health for all of us. You can go here to learn more about their accomplishments and more leaders like them.

For more BIPOC mental health resources, visit Black Mental Health or Bad Bitches Have Bad Days Too.

It will take all of us working together to improve behavioral health access for all communities. PDG is proud to actively support every individual in their behavioral health journey, regardless of culture or race, and with staff from diverse backgrounds. We’re always looking for opportunities to better support our community and welcome your thoughts at [email protected].