Black Men's Mental Health Ambassadors Program (Michigan)
The Black Men's Mental Health Ambassadors Program is Up and Running (August 2024)
The Packard Health Black Men's Mental Health Ambassadors Program is a community-based initiative to address the unique mental health challenges Black men and boys face in Washtenaw County, Michigan. Rooted in the recognition of disparities in mental health outcomes among Black men and boys, this program seeks to empower individuals within the Washtenaw County community to serve as advocates and resources for mental health awareness and support. By engaging Black men and boys as ambassadors, the program aims to foster a culture of open dialogue, reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues, and increase access to resources and support networks.
Within the broader context of the Black community in Washtenaw County, mental health awareness and support are of paramount importance, particularly for Black men and boys. Historically, systemic inequalities, social stigma, and cultural barriers have contributed to disparities in mental health outcomes, including higher rates of depression, anxiety, and untreated mental illness among Black men. These challenges are often compounded by factors such as racism, economic inequality, and limited access to culturally competent mental health services. Therefore, initiatives like the Packard Health Black Men's Mental Health Ambassadors Program are crucial in addressing these disparities and promoting holistic well-being within the Black community.
The goals and objectives of the Packard Health Black Men's Mental Health Ambassadors Program are multifaceted, aiming to achieve both individual and community-level impact in Washtenaw County. At its core, the program seeks to empower Black men and boys to become advocates for mental health awareness and de-stigmatization within their communities. Through education, outreach, and peer support, ambassadors promote mental health literacy, encourage help-seeking behaviors, and connect individuals to appropriate resources and services. Additionally, the program aims to foster a sense of solidarity and resilience among Black men and boys, creating a supportive network that prioritizes mental health and wellness as integral components of overall health and empowerment.
This curriculum provides a comprehensive framework for a community-based mental health ambassador program tailored to the needs of Black men and boys in Washtenaw County. Adjustments can be made based on specific community needs, resources, and cultural considerations.
Launching an Advisory Board to Support the Black Men’s Mental Health Initiative at Packard (March 2024)
For the Black community in Washtenaw County, mental health awareness and support are of paramount importance, particularly for Black men and boys. Historically, systemic inequalities, social stigma, and cultural barriers have contributed to disparities in mental health outcomes, including higher rates of depression, anxiety, and untreated mental illness among Black men.
These challenges are often compounded by factors such as racism, economic inequality, and limited access to culturally competent mental health services. Therefore, collaborations between kNEWjoy and Packard Health on designing and delivering mental health resources that can be offered at Packard Health offices are crucial in addressing these disparities and promoting holistic well-being within the Black community.
kNEWjoy Collaborates with Packard Health to Provide Mental Health Resources for Black Men and Boys in Washtenaw County (January 2024)
kNEWjoy is excited to partner with Packard Health to develop mental health resources
tailored specifically for Black men and boys in Washtenaw County. Together, we have
established an advisory board composed of Black men and boys from the Washtenaw County community who meet regularly to guide which mental health resources are most relevant for Black men and boys.
This collaborative effort ensures that the materials address Black men and boys' unique needs and perspectives, incorporating cultural sensitivity and relevance. Through this partnership, we are committed to bridging the gap in mental health support for this demographic, promoting wellness and resilience within the community.