ANXIETY AND THE BLACK COMMUNITY

May has been observed as the mental health awareness month since the late 1940s. It began as an initiative by the Mental Health America Organization to sensitize the public about the importance of mental health.

This month at Black Ivy Media, our focus is Anxiety in Black communities.

According to census bureau data, there has been an increase in the rate of anxiety and depression in black communities after the death of George Floyd in 2020. Studies also show that Black Americans have a 20% higher chance of developing mental health conditions. There was a 9.8% surge in the suicide rate among black teenagers between 1991 and 2017.

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in black communities. Anxiety is the feeling of fear and worry about certain situations. Everyone occasionally feels anxious. It is a normal neurological reaction to stress. It is also the brain’s way of alerting you to potentially dangerous situations. Anxiety becomes a mental health concern when you are constantly in an overwhelming state of worry and fear. This is called an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety is a rather complex mental health condition, and it can be triggered by a number of things. Some of these triggers include:

• Early trauma is caused by physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.

• Family history, including genetic dispositions and early environment.

• Low self-esteem or a shy temperament.

• Certain medical conditions like thyroid disease and arrhythmia.

• The misuse of certain medications and illegal substances.

Some additional risk factors for the black community include:

• Police violence.

• Sexual assault.

• Racism and racial abuse. This is a significant trigger of anxiety in black communities.

• The effects of racism include less than safe environments and fewer opportunities in society.

Some symptoms of anxiety disorders include sleep problems, uneasiness, panic, restlessness, an inability to concentrate, tense muscles, continuously thinking about a problem, nausea, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, hyperventilation, and constant avoidance of all situations that cause fear.

Anxiety manifests in a variety of ways, including:

• Panic attacks

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies show that post-traumatic stress disorder is more prevalent in Black communities.

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Specific phobias

• Selective mutism

• Social and separation anxiety

When anxiety is not addressed, it can have long-lasting negative effects on your physical health. It can cause weathering and the gradual decline of your physical and mental health.

Therapy and medications are the most effective treatments for anxiety, but many people are afraid to seek assistance through therapy because of the stigma that accompanies mental health issues.

Some alternatives to try are:

• Good self-care includes regular exercise, quality sleep, and a nutritious diet.

• Alternative and complementary remedies like acupuncture, yoga, and meditation.

• Another alternative is Activism. People who suffer from anxiety due to racism can find an outlet through Activism.

• Having a support group or community is a necessity. It should comprise of people who understand how serious anxiety is and can help you in difficult times. They can make all the difference.