by Tara E. l May 1, 2024
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions that cause a lot of worry and fear. These feelings can be so strong that they get in the way of everyday life. For African Americans, anxiety disorders are a big concern. Let’s talk about anxiety disorders in African Americans, what causes them, how to spot them, and what you can do to feel better.
Anxiety Disorders in African Americans: What the Numbers Say
Did you know that in 2024, about 39.4% of African American adults might face an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives? That’s almost 4 out of every 10 people! It’s important to know this so we can help each other.
Why Do Anxiety Disorders Happen?
Anxiety disorders can happen for many reasons. Sometimes, it’s because of stress or scary events in life. Other times, it might be because of health problems or if someone in your family has anxiety. Even things like seeing violence can make someone more likely to have an anxiety disorder.
Why Some African Americans May Not Ask for Help with Anxiety
Reluctance to seek help for anxiety disorders among African Americans can be attributed to a variety of factors. Stigma and judgment within the community often deter individuals from discussing mental health issues openly or seeking professional help. Concerns about the therapist or treatment process, including fears that the therapist may not be culturally sensitive or hold biases, can also be significant barriers. Additionally, systemic issues such as the cost of treatment, lack of insurance coverage, and historical mistrust of medical institutions play a role. There’s also a strong tradition of relying on family, community, and spiritual support rather than medical or psychiatric treatment, even when it’s critically necessary2. These factors, combined with the underrepresentation of African Americans in the mental health profession, contribute to the reluctance to seek help for anxiety disorders.
What to Look Out For
People with anxiety disorders might feel nervous, scared, or have trouble breathing. They might also have difficulty sleeping, feel their heart beating fast, or feel dizzy. If you’re always worried, even about small things, it could be a sign of an anxiety disorder.
Getting Help
Seeking help if you suspect you have an anxiety disorder is crucial because it’s the first step towards reclaiming your peace of mind and well-being. Anxiety disorders can significantly impact daily life, affecting relationships, work, and overall happiness. Professional help can provide effective strategies and treatments to manage symptoms, improve your mental health, and enhance your quality of life. Remember, acknowledging the need for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and it opens the door to a supportive community and resources that can guide you toward recovery. There are many ways to treat anxiety disorders. Doctors can prescribe medicines that help calm the mind. Talking therapies, like seeing a counselor, can also make a big difference. Plus, there are natural ways to feel better, like exercising, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep.
When to See a Doctor
If you’re feeling worried all the time and it’s making life hard, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor. They can help figure out if you have an anxiety disorder and what to do about it.
Screening Questions
Here are some questions you can ask yourself to see if you might have an anxiety disorder:
- Do you feel nervous or worried a lot?
- Is it hard for you to stop worrying? or;
- Do you worry about the same things over and over again?
- Do you often feel overwhelmed?
- Do you get scared easily, even when there’s no real danger?
- Do you avoid certain situations because you are afraid your anxiety might spike or you might have a panic attack?
If you said yes to these questions, it might be time to talk to someone about it.
Let’s Take Action!
Remember, having an anxiety disorder is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s just like any other health problem that needs care. If you think you or someone you love might have an anxiety disorder, reach out for help. You’re not alone, and there are people who can support you.
References in Article
- National Alliance on Mental Illness. (n.d.). Black/African American. Retrieved from NAMI
- National Alliance on Mental Illness. (n.d.). Anxiety Disorders. Retrieved from NAMI
- American Psychiatric Association. (2021). New Study Documents Increased Anxiety Among Black Emerging Adults from Exposure to Police Violence. Retrieved from Psychiatry.org
- American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). Mental Health Disparities: African Americans. Retrieved from Psychiatry.org
- Medical News Today. (2024). What to know about anxiety in Black communities. Retrieved from Medical News Today.
- McLean Hospital. (2024). Understanding Mental Health in Black Communities. Retrieved from McLean Hospital.