Raising the Bar: Mental Health in the Black Community

In recent years, mental health has become a topic that many people have begun to openly discuss in the media. Celebrities like Demi Lovato, Ellen DeGeneres, and even Prince Harry have discussed their battles with depression, anxiety and/or eating disorders. Spotlighting this topic may seem like a step in the right direction, but in many cultures cutting ties with the stigma is not as easy. 

Last week, African-American YouTuber Daniel Desmond Amofah, better known as “Etika,” went missing in New York City after posting, a now deleted, video about dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts. Yesterday his body was recovered by NYPD in the East River. Though, investigation is still on going, many have speculated that his last video was a suicide note. 

According to the Columbia University Department of Psychiatry, “the adult Black community is 20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems.” This demographic also experience higher rates of mental health problems, but have a lower rate of seeking help. The question now is, why?

Raising the Bar hosts Jason Clark, President of the Metropolitan Black Bar Association and Attorney Adeola Adejobi are joined by David W. D. Mitchell, Senior Associate at Hogan Lovells; and Dr. Mani Saint-Victor, a Physician, Mindset Coach, and author to discuss mental health in the black community.