Affecting over 40 million adults in the United States, anxiety is the most common mental health disorder in the country. The disorder can affect anyone, but the African-American community has been affected by it at a higher rate than any other group.
The African-American population, although the second most populous race in the United States, only makes up 13% of the total population. Of these people, 16% claimed to have been suffering from some form of mental illness in the last year.
Triggers in African-Americans and the General Population
This particular mental disorder can be caused by a number of different triggers. Family history and early trauma are the most common triggers, but they can also be caused by other medical conditions and have genetic origins. In addition to this, African-Americans have to take into consideration the exposure to racism, additional abuse, and the general effects that racism has on culture, like fewer opportunities and gentrification.
As for specific events, driving, harsh work environments, busy schedules, traveling, phobias, and overwhelming responsibilities make up a large portion of triggers for those suffering from mental health disorders. It can be difficult to deal with these triggers, as they are a normal part of life. This is just one of the reasons therapy is so important.
Therapy for Anxiety and Depression
The prevalence of mental health disorders in the United States shouldn’t be ignored. It’s perfectly fine to feel anxious during certain life events, but it’s not healthy to allow any mental health disorder to cause a constant disruption to your life.
These types of mental disorders often lead to other disorders. Therapy helps people understand the disorder, discover their triggers, and get a better handle on life. In addition, patients get treated during difficult parts of their lives. This helps people maintain composure and reduce symptoms.
There are quite a few things you can do to keep your mental health in check. Focused breathing can help ease off an incoming panic attack, staying in shape can ease your anxious attitude towards your physical health, but talking with someone you trust is key.
It can be difficult for family members to understand what you’re going through if they aren’t familiar with mental health issues themselves. It may seem like they don’t understand you, and it can even feel like they don’t care. Talking with a therapist is the only way for many people to truly express how they feel.
Black Minds Matter Psychotherapy offers a new take on therapy in Oakland, CA. Their therapy consists of talking directly about racist influences, integrating discipline into a lifestyle, and educating patients about the political issues, socioeconomic impacts, and history that may be negatively impacting their mental health.