8 ways to support #ShadesofMentalHealth, July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

minority mental health

By  Janel Teʻo, M.A., Ashley Barnes, M.S., Dominique Hall What is Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month? Celebrating Minority Mental Health Awareness Month can ensure anti-discrimination in mental health care for all individuals. Anyone should be able to seek help without hardships and fear of judgment, regardless of their cultural and social background. By raising awareness, we can provide an inclusive mental health space that supports diverse experiences and well-being for everyone.  Everyone deserves culturally competent mental health care that acknowledges and respects the intersection of their identity and experiences. #ShadesofMentalHealth Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month was first recognized and nationally declared in July of 2008. This was sponsored by Rep. Albert Wynn and cosponsored by a large bipartisan group.  Bebe Moore Campbell was a Black American author, journalist, teacher, and mental health advocate. She used her voice to address the profound impact of racism, …

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Social Media and Mental Health Concerns in 2024

Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
minority mental health

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. Social Media Social media is a form of internet-based communication that allows people to create, share, and exchange information and ideas in virtual communities and networks. It can include text, visuals, personal messages, and other content, such as videos. Social media often features user-generated content that encourages engagement through likes, shares, comments, and discussion. Uses for social media include: Connecting with others: People can use social media to build relationships, have conversations, and connect with their audience. Sharing Information: People can use social media to share ideas, personal messages, and other content. Marketing: Brands and creators can use social media marketing to sell products or services, connect with their audience, and build their brand. Creating Content: People can use social media to create web content, such as blogs and podcast Some popular social media platforms include: TikTok Facebook Instagram Snapchat YouTube While social media can be …

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World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2024

minority mental health

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. What is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day? Each year on June 15th, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed to spread awareness of elder abuse and neglect with efforts to prevent it. A major goal of World Elder Abuse Day is to provide education pertaining to the social, cultural, demographic, and economic situations that impact elder abuse and neglect.  Elder abuse. An elder is anyone age 65 or older and elder abuse describes any intentional act or failure to act that causes a risk of harm to an older adult (CDC, 2024). A sad truth about elder abuse and neglect is that it often occurs at the hands of a caregiver or person the elder trusts. Elder abuse is a serious problem in the United States with about 1 in 10 older adults over the age of 60 having experienced some form of it (CDC, 2024).  …

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7 Tips for Finding a Therapist in Los Angeles

Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
client shaking hands with therapist after Finding a Therapist in Los Angeles

Finding a therapist in Los Angeles can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming. There is an easier way, and it involves making the right connections. By contacting a treatment center and providing basic information, they can connect you with the best therapist. You can spend less time searching and more time focusing on the benefits of treatment. Finding a therapist in Los Angeles can be overwhelming due to the city’s vast size and numerous options. This uncertainty and multitude of choices can lead to frustration, especially for those already experiencing with mental health challenges. Navigating this process without guidance can feel like an insurmountable barrier to receiving care. This article provides seven tips for finding a therapist in Los Angeles. Finding a Therapist in Los Angeles Finding a therapist in Los Angeles presents a unique challenge due to the city’s sheer size and the overwhelming number of available professionals. It is …

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What Does Ketamine Therapy Feel Like?

Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
a woman relaxes in a chair during ketamine therapy session after exploring the question: what does ketamine therapy feel like?

What does ketamine therapy feel like? Ketamine therapy often induces a sense of deep relaxation and detachment from reality. Patients may experience vivid, dream-like visions and a feeling of floating. Emotions can range from euphoria to introspection. Sessions typically last about an hour, with lingering effects that can promote lasting relief from depressive symptoms. It is crucial to undergo this therapy under professional supervision for safety. Ketamine therapy is an innovative treatment that offers a unique experience for patients seeking relief from depression and other mental health conditions. During a session, individuals often report a profound sense of relaxation and detachment from their surroundings, akin to a dream-like state. This therapeutic process, conducted under professional supervision, can lead to significant emotional introspection and enduring symptom relief. This article provides a comprehensive overview to help answer one of the most common questions asked by individuals interested in ketamine therapy: what does …

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