Reclaiming Our Sanity—Black Fatherhood, Mental Health, and Systemic Neglect
Reclaiming Our Sanity—Black Fatherhood, Mental Health, and Systemic Neglect
Why This Matters
As we close out Men’s Health Month and look ahead to National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, we must confront an undeniable truth: Black men’s mental health remains overlooked, stigmatized, and underfunded.
Black fathers are navigating the weight of racism, economic stress, intergenerational trauma, and structural barriers—all while trying to be present and emotionally available for their families. These mental health challenges are compounded by policies that have historically excluded fathers from care systems.
Healing-Centered Models (there are others that I will share in the coming weeks)
🏆 Project Brotherhood (Chicago)
A Black men’s health clinic that co-locates physical, mental, and social services within a culturally affirming space. Their barbershop-based health education and mental health workshops have been featured as a national best practice.
🛎️ Man Therapy (Colorado)
This campaign uses humor, accessibility, and digital tools to destigmatize mental health among men. It connects men to resources using relatable language and storytelling—especially for those who may resist traditional therapy.
Counterargument: Isn’t this just about personal resilience?
My Response: Personal resilience matters—but it cannot replace structural support. We need both: culturally competent providers, Medicaid reimbursement for father-focused therapy, mental health leave for new dads, and federal funding to integrate behavioral health into community-based fatherhood programs.
In 2022, the CDC reported that Black adults were more likely than white adults to experience serious psychological distress—but less likely to receive treatment. Among men, that gap is even wider. A policy framework that ignores fathers is a framework that reinforces these inequities.
Policy Recommendations
Fund culturally responsive mental health programs specifically designed for Black and Brown men.
Expand federal funding for integrated behavioral health within barbershops, fatherhood programs, and churches.
Establish Offices of Men's Mental Health Equity to coordinate research, funding, and program implementation.
Take It Further
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Dr. Okey K. Enyia
Father. Strategist. Advocate. Son.
#WherePurposeMeetsPolicy