Since 2015, the Chicago (IL) Chapter of the
Links, Incorporated, focused its
efforts to improve mental health care through
a program called Links2Hope, Closing the
Mental Health Gap in the African American
Community.
Mental Health is a serious public health issue
that significantly impacts African AmericansSince 2015, the Chicago (IL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, focused its efforts to improve mental health care through a program called Links2Hope, Closing the Mental Health Gap in the African American Community. Mental Health is a serious public health issue that significantly impacts African Americans. As a group, African Americans seek help at a rate much lower when compared to other ethnic and cultural counterparts. Research indicates that approximately 18-20% of people in the United States face some mental health crisis with racial and ethnic minorities facing a 3% higher likelihood of such a crisis..
As a group, African Americans seek help at a
rate much lower when compared to other
ethnic and cultural counterparts. Research
indicates that approximately 18-20% of people
in the United States face some mental health
crisis with racial and ethnic minorities facing a
3% higher likelihood of such a crisis.
These conditions are exacerbated by social and environmental factors, including structural and institutional racism, violence, and trauma. The double pandemic of 2020, the Coronavirus (COVID-19), and racial injustices have brought critical attention to health disparities and the lack of access. African Americans often fail to seek treatment due to the lack of awareness of resources and tools.
Making A Difference
The Chicago (IL) Chapter recognizes that the problem is vast, but something has to be done. As a result, we have created a mental health resource guide that aims to promote wellness. This guide is available online, through social media and other platforms to serve those who seek help when needed and/or wanted. This guide features community organizations in the greater Chicago area entrenched in this important work.