David Akers, M.Ed., is the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Program Coordinator for the BHWC at the SIU School of Medicine. David is a counselor by training, who is completing their Master’s in Public Health; his passions lie in promoting health equity, improving health outcomes for minoritized communities, and ensuring our healthcare workforce is both trained to provide culturally proficient care and is reflective of the communities it serves.
Content Warning: suicide, self-harm
Suicide is a critical issue that affects every community; however, it impacts various demographics differently. For the Black community, it is the second leading cause of death for those between the ages of 15-24, and the rate is four times higher in Black men than Black women.
A University of Georgia study tracked over 500 Black men from their late teens to early 20s, asking them to reflect on their childhoods at three different points during that time. The questions discussed experiences of abuse, economic hardship and traumatic experiences. Researchers found individuals who experienced childhood trauma, deprivation and racism had “developed an internal understanding of the world as somewhere they are devalued, could not trust others and could not engage in the community in a supportive way.”
In recent years, the conversation about adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) has emerged but needs more development around economic difficulty, racism and limited emotional support. Addressing the epidemic of suicide and suicidal ideation among Black men is crucial in breaking the stigma around discussing suicide and mental health struggles, combating systemic and interpersonal racism, and encouraging healthy emotional expression.
Break the stigma: Conversations about suicide can feel uncomfortable, but one of the most important ways to reduce the stigma is to have honest discussions about the prevalence of suicidal ideation. Mental Health First Aid offers tips for community members. We should also work with local organizations to share resources that provide the appropriate tools for conversations about mental health and finding support.
Community organizations such as centers of faith can be key players in navigating mental health care from a spiritual perspective, or a trusted community member can help facilitate conversations among family members or support systems.
Support emotional expression: Men are often taught that expressing emotions makes them look weak. Remaining calm, stoic and rational is encouraged over emotional expression, especially for those feeling vulnerable, anxious, fearful or sad.
Instead of avoiding uncomfortable feelings, hold space for yourself and others to express and name those emotions. Doing so helps you better regulate and understand your feelings and provides a safe space for others to do the same.
Challenge systems of oppression: As we build a community of support, we must name and challenge racism and anti-Blackness. Addressing toxic masculinity and racism opens the conversation and limits the chance that others will resort to self-harm.
Begin by addressing your personal biases. Knowing what incorrect assumptions you may have about minority members and groups aids in working through internalized stigmas. You can also participate in local organizations managed by minority community members as an ally and added support.
Remember to check in with your family and friends and encourage them to make their mental health a priority. Practice self-care and invite others, especially Black men and other minority community members, to do the same. Holding space for our community members, hearing their stories and encouraging them to express themselves in healthy ways is a great place to start.
Check out these resources from Black Men Heal centered around Black mental health:
You can also review the Suicide Prevention Resource Center’s Ideas for Action and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention for more information and resources.
To increase access to effective behavioral health services through coordinated initiatives to recruit, educate, and retain professionals in behavioral health.
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