“Emotionally Healthy Black Men”

Best Practice for Supporting Mental Health Treatment for Black Men in Ohio

This study aims to investigate the barriers that prevent Black men from seeking help for depression and other mental illnesses, as well as to identify effective solutions to improve mental health outcomes for Black men living in Ohio. Depression is the most common mental health disorder; however, it is often underrecognized and undertreated in Black men. The widespread neglect of depression and the failure to provide appropriate treatment for Black men is concerning and highlights the need for research that can lead to positive outcomes. I chose to conduct a Delphi study because there is no definitive answer to my research questions, which were formulated from the surprisingly limited body of published research on encouraging help-seeking behavior for mental health treatment within my target population. The Delphi approach utilizes feedback from relevant experts in the field to reach a consensus on important issues. The experts completed several rounds of questionnaires, and information was collected and developed into more detailed questionnaires. These were then sent back to the expert panelists for their responses, culminating in a final round aimed at achieving consensus. The expert panelists did not develop solution-based interventions; rather, the data gathered will inform further research and guide community agencies and providers in creating culturally welcoming spaces for Black men seeking help with their mental health. The survey results revealed a correlation between specific strategies to motivate and assist Black men in addressing their mental health needs, ultimately aiming to improve services for this population. Promoting widespread cultural and racial diversity within the mental health field will enhance access to a greater number of culturally competent providers and effective treatment approaches. Key barriers that need to be acknowledged and addressed include the initial diagnosis of mental illness, access to care, the availability of culturally competent providers, the location of treatment facilities, and obstacles to follow-up care. This research highlights the disparities in mental health services for Black men, which are inadequate compared to those for White men and Black women in Ohio, as well as within the national context.

Committee
Jennifer Raymond, PhD, Chair

Woden Teachout, PhD

Karin Caldwell, PhD

LINK: https://antioch.zoom.us/j/640371973 (Defense Room #1) MEETING ID:  640 371 973

CALL IN:  646.876.9923 or 669.900.6833 or click to find your local number For audio, you may use your computer or call in using the numbers and meeting ID found above. All guests will be muted until it is time for audience participation