Psychological Association

Psychological Association, 2016). When analyzing the way physicians communicate with their patients, research illustrates it differs for African Americans and whites. For instance, one study found that “physicians were 23% more verbally dominant, and engaged in 33% less patient-centered communication with African American patients than with white patients” (American Psychological Association, 2016, p.1). Additionally, studies illustrate that African Americans tend to prefer psychotherapy over medications for depression treatments as studies have also indicated that “they metabolize many medications more slowly than the general population, however primary care providers are more likely to prescribe higher dosage of antidepressants, which may result in greater negative side effects and a decreased likelihood of sticking with treatment” (Vargas, n.d., p.3). Given these circumstances, it is imperative for mental health practitioners to fully understand their client’s past and their culture including their community’s significant history, disparities, and stigma, to provide the highest quality of care.
Programs already in place
It is evident that there is a great need in the African American community to educate them about mental illness, eliminate any health disparities and to put an end to the stigma related to mental illness. In trying to accomplish this, Each Mind Matters was created as a mental health movement that consists of millions of people and thousands of organizations who work together to advance mental health, and with a vision to improve mental health and equality ( Each Mind Matters, 2018). Their main goal is to strengthen the voices of all people who want to end the stigma and through this, create a community where everyone feels comfortable reaching out for support. For Each Mind Matters, it is important to reach California’s diverse populations,