Exploring the Intersection of Race and Mental Health in the PNW

By Georgia Mickey

As a Black woman living in the Pacific Northwest, I've navigated the unsettling waves of racism, each incident leaving an imprint on my mental health. From being followed around in stores, targeted with racial slurs, to having strangers lay their hands on my hair without consent, I've known the uneasy touch of racism in its many forms. Every incident has left me grappling with feelings of anger, fear, and isolation.

Yet, I am acutely aware that my experiences are not singular. In fact, Black individuals in the Pacific Northwest disproportionately grapple with mental health issues. A troubling statistic by the National Alliance on Mental Illness reveals that Black adults in this region are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts compared to their white counterparts.

What lies beneath this grim disparity? The roots are tangled in the region's history of racial discrimination spanning housing, employment, and education. Generations of Black people have faced systemic racism, resulting in a legacy of trauma and stress that often culminates in mental health problems.

Compounding this issue is the lack of access to mental health care. Black individuals are statistically less likely to possess health insurance and are more likely to reside in rural areas with limited mental health providers. This dark reality compounds the difficulty for Black individuals to receive the necessary mental health care.

The intersectionality of race and mental health is a complex issue. Yet, it's an issue that we cannot afford to ignore. There's an urgent need to educate ourselves and others about the impact of racism on mental health and ensure that Black individuals have equitable access to quality mental health care.

To my fellow Black individuals in the Pacific Northwest struggling with mental health, please know that you are not alone. There are resources available to you. Here are a few that you may find helpful:

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Reach them at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264). NAMI provides advocacy, education, support, and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This lifeline provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress, along with prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.

The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741. It's a free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text from anywhere in the U.S. to text with a trained crisis counselor.

In these challenging times, let's remind ourselves that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There is help available, and there's no shame in reaching out. As we continue our journey, let's remember to extend empathy, understanding, and support to each other. Together, we can strive towards a future that truly sees us, hears us, and values us.