Black Mental Health Week gives us an opportunity to come together and reflect on the importance of amplifying Black voices and focusing on Black mental wellness.
Empowering Canadians also means to make sure Black Canadians have access to the care they need.
Black Canadians face unique challenges that can affect their mental health. Many carry the burdens of systemic racism, discrimination, social exclusion and disparities in socio-economic status. All of this can cause enormous stress and erode mental health.
And, while mental health support does exist, it can be difficult to access. Barriers include cost, racial or cultural biases, and a lack of culturally relevant care.
The impacts aren't only individual - they ripple across families and communities, extending across generations.
And, that's why the Government of Canada works with Black community partners, organizations, not-for-profits, and researchers to ensure Black Canadians can access mental health supports that are trusted and culturally relevant. By listening to and supporting initiatives and projects that are designed by Black communities for Black communities, we can make a difference in the mental health care of Black Canadians.
Our collective efforts are essential to creating a society where every person has the opportunity to thrive, and where public health initiatives leave no one behind.
Since 2018, the Public Health Agency of Canada has invested in 61 community-led projects through the Promoting Health Equity: Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund. Through the Fund, the Agency has partnered with Black Canadian community groups, not-for-profit organizations, and researchers to develop culturally focused knowledge, capacity and programs that aim to improve mental health in Black communities.
Young people across Canada are struggling with their mental health. And Black youth, like many young people, are carrying heavy burdens and have urgent mental health care needs.
Through the Youth Mental Health Fund, Health Canada is funding Integrated Youth Services and community organizations to strengthen youth mental health care. The Fund focuses on youth experiencing health inequities, including Black youth, who need culturally safe spaces where they can access timely help.
As well, in Fall 2024, Health Canada introduced Black-centric enhancements to Health Canada's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to provide culturally competent and trauma-informed mental health support to Black public servants and their families. To date, the number of Black mental health professionals in the EAP has tripled, resulting in a 92% match rate for clients requesting a Black provider.
As we move forward, let us continue to amplify Black voices and work together to address the health inequities that affect Black communities across the country.
Because when Black communities succeed, our communities and our economy thrive.
And Canada too.
To anyone struggling with mental health challenges, you are not alone. Help is available - visit canada.ca/mental-health for a list of services and supports in your area.
The Honourable Marjorie Michel P.C., M.P.
