APA Mental Health Equity Fireside Chat: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of African Americans-View Presentation

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) hosts a Mental Health Fireside Chat focused on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of African Americans. The discussion highlights the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on communities of color and addresses the social factors that put these communities at higher risk. The conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyle strategies, such as getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, and seeking social support. The guests also discuss the concept of vaccine inquisitiveness as opposed to vaccine hesitancy, encouraging people to ask questions and fostering an open dialogue about the COVID-19 vaccine. They also emphasize the importance of trust and building relationships with the African American community when providing mental health services. The guests discuss the need for accessible mental health and substance use treatment services for African Americans and highlight the role of religious communities as a source of support. The conversation concludes by discussing the resilience of the African American community, acknowledging the challenges they face and the need for self-care and support.

Keywords

American Psychiatric Association

Mental Health Fireside Chat

COVID-19 pandemic

African Americans

disproportionate impact

healthy lifestyle strategies

vaccine inquisitiveness

accessible mental health services

resilience