Understanding Racial Disparities Experienced by African American Men in Treatment
It is important that clinicians have an understanding of racial disparities experienced by African American men in substance abuse and mental health treatment because it allows them to provide effective care. Without an understanding of racial disparities, clinicians may unintentionally perpetuate biases and overlook factors that contribute to a client's needs and lived experiences.
1
Opioid Use Disorder
In comparison to White men, African American men experience higher rates of substance use, are at greater risk of relapse (Dogan et al., 2021), and have the highest mortality and morbidity rates (Williams et al., 2020). In the past decade, opioid related overdose deaths have increased among African Americans. In 2020, the overdose death rate increased 44 percent for African Americans, surpassing all other racial and ethnic groups (CDC, 2022). Because substance abuse often co-occurs with mental health disorders, African Americans often struggle with untreated mental illness (Cheng & Robinson, 2013).
2
Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder is a widespread mental health condition that is often undiagnosed and untreated (Bailey et al., 2019). Major depressive episodes among African Americans ages 26-49 increased from 5.7 percent to 6.3 percent between 2015-2018. African Americans are more likely to suffer from severe, prolonged, and debilitating symptoms of major depressive disorder, but are more likely to underutilize treatment services (Bailey et al., 2011).
3
Distrust in the Healthcare System
Experiences of racism and discrimination within the healthcare system has significantly contributed to distrust of healthcare institutions among many African American men (Hammond, 2010; DeAngelis, 2023). This distrust prevents African American men from seeking and receiving treatment for their substance use and mental health disorders. Without adequate support, African American men may face many challenges in achieving and maintaining recovery.
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Lack of Access to Quality Care
When African American men do seek treatment, they are less likely to have access to quality substance abuse and mental health treatment compared to their White counterparts (DeAngelis, 2023). African American men are also more likely to have poor treatment outcomes compared to Whites (NAMI, 2023). Biases, discrimination, and lack of cultural competence among clinicians can result in misdiagnoses and lack of quality care in African American men.
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Health Inequities and African American Men
Substance abuse and mental health inequities among African American men are complex issues. These issues are embedded in various societal and economic factors. Clinicians with knowledge and experience in CRT and counter-storytelling can help raise awareness about racial disparities and systemic barriers, challenge clinician bias, and advocate for change, which promotes health equity and better treatment outcomes for African American men in treatment.