Empowering Black Mental Health: Expanding Access and Awareness During Black History Month

GASTONIA, NC, February 28, 2025 – Black History Month is a time to honor the resilience, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It is also a crucial time to address the unique mental health challenges faced by the Black community and promote access to support and healing.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Black adults in the U.S. are 20% more likely to experience serious mental health issues than the general population. However, only one in three Black individuals who need mental health care receive it. This gap is due to factors such as limited access to Black therapists, cultural stigma around mental health discussions, and mistrust of the medical system.

As a Black-owned business,CTSHealth is dedicated to breaking down barriers to mental wellness. Black Americans often encounter systemic challenges that impact their mental health, from racial trauma and discrimination to limited access to culturally competent care. Recognizing these challenges, we provide specialized mental health services designed to support and empower Black individuals on their wellness journeys.

This February, our commitment extended beyond direct services. Through our podcast, Healthy Head Talk, we have featured inspiring Black leaders, mental health advocates, and experts to share their experiences, insights, and resources for healing. These conversations aim to break the stigma around mental health and encourage open dialogue about wellness in the Black community.

"Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, and for too long, the Black community has faced obstacles in accessing care," said Candice Case, host of Healthy Head Talk. "By providing culturally competent mental health services and amplifying Black voices through our podcast, we are working to create lasting change.”

To further support Black mental health, CTSHealth offers culturally competent therapy and counseling services that acknowledge and address the lived experiences of Black individuals. Blogs and podcast episodes feature pioneers in black mental health and real conversations about mental health, resilience, and personal growth.

This Black History Month—and beyond—we encourage everyone to prioritize mental well-being. Visit www.ctshealth.org to learn more about our services, tune into our latest podcast episodes, or join our upcoming events.