We must continue amplifying the conversations around mental health, especially within Kansas’ Black community. According to research, Black Americans often face unique challenges when it comes to accessing mental health care, stemming from historical inequalities and stigma. Who do we have in place to ensure we bridge the gap between awareness and action for our communities?
In collaboration with Kansas’ Black Leaders, from elected officials to local small business owners, a powerful Black Mental Health PSA was produced to drive home the importance of suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
Understanding Mental Health in Black Communities
Mental health is an issue that affects all of us, but communities of color often experience mental health concerns differently, leading to a delay in seeking help. We must break the silence and remove the stigma around mental health and suicide prevention/
A Call to Action for the Black Kansas Community
This is more than just raising awareness—it’s a call to action. Jahvelle Rhone’s message of hope resonates deeply: “Empowerment starts with a pause, a moment to listen, and the courage to seek help. You’re not alone and your story matters." Now is the time for us to empower ourselves with knowledge, compassion, and unity. By standing together, we can dismantle the barriers preventing our community from seeking help and achieving mental well-being.
Mental Health Resources Available for Kansans
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or mental health issues, you are not alone. Below are some essential resources:
1. Black Mental Wellness Lounge
Location: Wichita, KS
Services: Offers culturally competent mental health counseling and life coaching for Black individuals and families. Provides both in-person and telehealth services.
Website: blackmentalwellnesslounge.com
2. The Melanin Collective
Location: Kansas City, KS
Services: Focused on empowering communities of color through education, mental health services, and cultural connections. Offers individual and group therapy.
Website: themelanincollective.com
3. Black Therapists Rock Kansas
Location: Virtual (serves all of Kansas)
Services: A directory of Black mental health professionals, offering a variety of therapeutic services tailored to the unique cultural experiences of Black communities.
Website: blacktherapistsrock.com
4. NAMI Kansas (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Location: Multiple locations across Kansas
Services: Offers support groups, educational programs, and resources to advocate for Black mental health. Provides culturally competent training for volunteers and professionals.
Website: namikansas.org
5. Open Path Collective - Kansas
Location: Various therapists throughout Kansas
Services: Affordable mental health care for individuals, families, and couples, including Black therapists offering reduced-fee services.
Website: openpathcollective.org
6. Therapy for Black Girls
Location: Virtual (nationwide and Kansas-specific therapists available)
Services: A directory of Black female therapists, offering therapy services for women, including those in Kansas. Focuses on supporting mental health through culturally relevant care.
Website: therapyforblackgirls.com
7. Therapy for Black Men
Location: Virtual (Kansas therapists available)
Services: Provides a directory of Black male therapists offering counseling and therapy services for Black men dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health issues.
Website: therapyforblackmen.org
8. Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM)
Location: Virtual (services available to Kansas residents)
Services: A training, movement-building, and grant-making organization dedicated to the mental health and healing of Black communities. Offers free toolkits, resources, and access to therapists.
Website: beam.community
9. Kansas Suicide Prevention HQ provides comprehensive suicide prevention training and resources. They operate the state's lifeline for anyone in need. You can reach out at 785-841-2345.
10. Black Mental Wellness provides culturally competent resources for Black communities. Explore their website for free mental health guides and therapy directories: blackmentalwellness.com.
11. Therapy for Black Girls, a safe space offering mental health support and a therapist directory for Black women and girls: therapyforblackgirls.com.
12. Kansas City Black Mental Health Initiative provides local, accessible mental health resources focused on Black residents in the metro area. Learn more here.
To learn more about our mission to uplift and empower Kansas’ Black community through equitable healthcare initiatives, visit our Kansas Black Health Initiative page. You can also stay connected with our upcoming events and workshops designed to provide tools for better mental health.
Let’s continue this crucial conversation—not just in September, but every month—because mental health is health.
Comments