More than 61 million Americans are living with a mental illness, with Black men facing a mental health crisis that often goes unnoticed and untreated, leading to fatal outcomes. Deaths from suicide, overdoses, and alcohol abuse among Black Americans have surpassed occurrences among whites, with rates of these deaths tripling among Black Americans between 2013 and 2022. Traditional definitions of masculinity, lack of trust in mental health systems, and a shortage of Black providers contribute to the reluctance of men, especially Black men, to seek professional help. Efforts are being made to address these issues, including peer-based support groups and partnerships with fraternal organizations to promote mental health and well-being in communities.
Black Men: ‘Manning Up’ Isn’t a Mental Health Flex
