Race, Ethnicity
& Mental Health

Same storm, different boats

Inclusivity is one of stem4’s core values: we believe in a vision of positive mental health for all young people and the surrounding community of parents/carers, teachers and more.

Part of achieving this vision is recognising that not everyone experiences the world, and therefore mental health, in the same way. For example, through being treated differently – because of race, skin colour, ethnicity, language use, accents, or background – our mental health might be affected in a way others may not experience. Equally, experiences with identity, family, and culture might impact us in a unique way.

This page is all about exploring the diverse experiences with mental health we might face due to race or ethnicity, giving voice to people and stories from BAME* communities, and providing mental health resources in an increasingly accessible way. Together, we can work towards the aim of positive mental health for all.

Blog

stem4’s blogs are written by individuals expressing their own experiences. We strive to be as diverse as possible in showcasing mental health stories, however, these blogs represent the individuals experience only. If any of these accounts have affected you, please find contacts to call here 

Please do not let stigma, worry about consequences or language barriers stop you from seeking early help to manage a mental ill health difficulty. You can ask for an advocate or a translator to help you communicate your concerns.

There are organisations that can help you access these services for free. Contact Rethink.org which has a range of resources and a helpline.

Black Minds Matter
A non-profit organisation that aims to empower communities to take charge of the change and improvement that they want to see. Black Minds Matter is for anybody aged 13- 25 who is passionate about changing things that will bring about a more equal and just society for all.
https://blackmindsmatter.co.uk

BATAAN
The UK’s largest independent organisation to specialise in working psychologically, informed by an understanding of intersectionality, with people who identify as Black, African, South Asian and Caribbean.
https://www.baatn.org.uk

Muslim Youth Helpline
The Muslim Youth Helpline (MYH) is an award-winning registered charity which provides pioneering faith and culturally sensitive services to Muslim youth in the UK

0808 801 0525 (helpline open 7 days/week, 4pm-10pm)

https://www.myh.org.uk

Mind: Young Black Men
A programme working with young Black men. The three-year programme works with 11 to 30-year-olds by offering a range of tailored local services.
https://www.mind.org.uk/about-us/our-policy-work/equality-and-human-rights/young-black-men

Please note that stem4 does not officially endorse these services. Descriptions are as provided by the organisations.

Rethink Mental Illness Sahayak Asianline
Kent and W Sussex
A culturally sensitive listening and information service for the Asian community in Kent and West Sussex. Callers may speak to us in the Asian languages of Gujarati, Punjabi, Hindu, and Urdu or English.
Helpline 0808 800 2073 (Mon-Wed 4pm-7pm, Tues-Thurs 12pm-3pm, Fri-Sun closed)

Website: www.rethink.org/help-in-your-area/services/advice-and-helplines/rethink-sahayak-asian-mental-health-helpline

Black Thrive
Based in Lambeth, South London
Black Thrive is an organisation dedicated to combating the inequality and injustices experienced by black people in mental health services.
Website: www.blackthrive.org.uk

Sharing Voices
Bradford
Sharing Voices delivers a range of services for individuals from black and ethnic minority communities dealing with mental distress.
Website: www.sharingvoices.net

Please note that stem4 does not officially endorse these services. Descriptions are as provided by the organisations.

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* The term BAME is commonly used to refer to those who do not come from a white British ethnic group. At stem4, we acknowledge that this is a very broad term and that each ethnic group can vary in culture and experience, and is also diverse within itself. It is our belief that all ethnic groups, and individuals from different backgrounds, should be treated with equal respect and social acceptance. It is due to this belief that we seek to create resources that reflect a wider acknowledgment of cultures, backgrounds and beliefs, such as this booklet. We sincerely welcome any feedback on the use of the word BAME on this page, and going forwards.

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