Empowering Black Health and Wellness: Resources to Support You During Black History Month and Beyond

As we honor and reflect upon Black History Month, it's a pivotal time to address the intersection of racial equity and healthcare. The CDC has acknowledged racism as a significant threat to public health. Recent statistics from the Kaiser Family Foundation highlight disparities in healthcare coverage, with Black individuals being less insured than their White peers, a gap further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The following statistics underscore the urgency of addressing healthcare inequities faced by the Black community:

• Approximately 25% of Black adults lack a regular primary care physician.

• Around 20% of Black adults have not undergone a routine medical exam in the preceding year.

• Cost-related barriers prevented 15% of Black adults from seeing a doctor in the last year.

• 38% of the Black population did not receive dental care in the past year.

In response to these challenges, we encourage a proactive approach to health and wellness. We've curated a selection of resources to support the health and empowerment of Black men, women, and children:

Healthcare Access and Wellness

Health In Her HUE is an innovative app designed for Black women and women of color, offering access to healthcare providers across various specialties, informative health content, and a supportive community forum.

BEAM – Black Virtual Wellness Directory facilitates the search for local wellness services, including mental health support and physical activities like yoga.

Mental Health Support

Access to mental health services is crucial, and these directories provide options for both in-person and remote telehealth appointments, catering to preferences regarding race, ethnicity, and cost:

Therapy For Black Girls offers a comprehensive resource with therapy services, alongside an informative podcast and blog, accessible with or without insurance coverage.

Open Path Collective provides an affordable therapy solution with a one-time membership fee, ensuring sessions are within financial reach.

Zencare simplifies the process of finding the right therapist, offering initial free consultation calls.

Ayana Therapy presents an online mental health platform with a flat monthly fee, pairing you with a licensed counselor after completing a questionnaire.

The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, initiated by actress Taraji P. Henson, grants five complimentary therapy sessions to those seeking mental healthcare.

BetterHelp – Thoughtful Human extends one month of free therapy services, with various communication modes like chat, messaging, phone, or video calls.

For insured individuals, it's advisable to consult with your insurance provider regarding copay waivers. Medicaid and Blue Cross Blue Shield, for instance, offer copay waivers for telehealth therapy within their networks.

In these trying times, as we navigate the complexities of work-life balance amidst a pandemic and strive for holistic well-being, let's prioritize self-care, especially during Black History Month. For those feeling overwhelmed by racism or coping with collective trauma, remember that support and resources are available to help you fill your own cup and make history by taking control of your health and wellness.