APA MOORE Equity in Mental Health Roundtable Conversation "Mind the Gap: Overcoming Mental Health Stigma by Bridging the Divide Between Generations”-View Presentation

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The American Psychiatric Association's "Mind the Gap" webinar explored bridging mental health gaps across generations to overcome stigma. Moderated by Dr. Elvis Giant, the panel featured Dr. Lisa Fortuna, Dr. Bhadra, and Dr. Lenore Tate—experts focusing on child/adolescent, geriatric, and community mental health, respectively. They discussed how mental health stigma varies between generations, shaped by social determinants like economic stability, cultural backgrounds, and access to care. Older generations often associated mental illness with shame and silence, while younger adults and Gen Z openly discuss mental health but face unprecedented anxiety and stress due to economic uncertainty, climate change, and social pressures amplified by social media.<br /><br />The panel highlighted disparities in marginalized communities where stigma, mistrust, and limited resources hinder care access. Technology and social media play differing roles: older adults mainly use platforms like Facebook, while younger generations use TikTok and Instagram to normalize mental health discussions. Intergenerational dialogue, storytelling, and culturally sensitive approaches—including integrating faith and community supports—were emphasized as tools to foster empathy and reduce stigma.<br /><br />Healing Circles and wraparound services were presented as effective community-based strategies, particularly in BIPOC populations. Experts stressed the importance of mutual listening, curiosity about others' experiences, and acknowledging unique generational struggles without dismissal. Clinicians and community leaders were encouraged to create safe spaces for cross-generational conversations, embed mental health in cultural contexts, and leverage technology to improve digital literacy among older adults.<br /><br />Overall, the discussion underscored that despite differing experiences, all generations share a common desire for understanding, healing, and connection to build inclusive, resilient mental health support systems.

Keywords

mental health stigma

intergenerational dialogue

social determinants of health

economic stability

cultural sensitivity

technology and social media

Healing Circles

BIPOC mental health

community-based strategies

digital literacy