CoE-IHS Office Hour: Understanding Suicide and Mental Health Disparities Among Black and African American Communities in Integrated Care

Recent news of death by suicide of notable public figures has drawn the attention of many to a crisis: Suicide continues to rise in Black and African American (B/AA) communities at an alarmingly increasing rate. In fact, while the overall suicide rate in the United States has decreased by 3% since 2020, the rate of suicide among men of color, including Black men, has increased.

To increase access to equitable care that saves lives through suicide prevention and treatment — ultimately promoting wellbeing in B/AA communities — we must provide culturally and linguistically responsive services, practice cultural humility and honor the tenacity of individuals and communities.

Especially during Black History Month, it is important to recognize the historical and systemic health disparities faced by B/AA communities as they relate to increasing rates of suicide. Integrated care models, which offer a person-centered and collaborative approach to tailoring care services that best meet the needs of an individual to improve equitable care for all, are particularly important in suicide prevention.

Join us for an office hour session on Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2-3 p.m. ET to discuss the history of B/AA experiences in health care, explore the existing disparities that impact mental health and substance use challenges, and share helpful strategies for advancing equitable and integrated care to improve health outcomes for B/AA communities.