Striking Mental Health Care Disparities Among Black Children and Adolescents-View Presentation

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Video Summary

The webinar titled "Striking Mental Health Care Disparities Among Black Children and Adolescents" was presented by Nicole Del Castillo, the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Carl Illinois College of Medicine, and Dr. Michelle Durham, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. The presentation detailed the continuing public health crisis in mental health among children and adolescents, emphasizing the disproportionate impact on Black children due to structural racism. Dr. David Satcher's 2000 report and Surgeon General Dr. Murthy's 2021 advisory note worsened mental health due to social stressors, the COVID-19 pandemic, and increased suicide rates among youth.<br /><br />The objectives were to identify mental health care disparities, understand their causes, and propose strategies to mitigate these disparities. The speakers outlined how structural racism, biased treatment, and limited access to services contribute to these disparities. They advocated for the need to improve the representation of diverse mental health professionals, culturally informed research, and interventions while addressing implicit bias within the system.<br /><br />Strategies to eliminate disparities included enhancing cultural responsiveness, promoting equitable access to care, collaborative community partnerships, and systemic reforms in policies. It was emphasized that collective effort and structural change are essential to addressing and eliminating these disparities. The discussion concluded with a call for increased advocacy, research, and education to foster equitable mental health care for Black children and broader communities.

Keywords

Mental Health

Black Children

Adolescents

Disparities

Structural Racism

COVID-19

Suicide Rates

Cultural Responsiveness

Equitable Access

Advocacy