“We aren’t going to claim that, LaQuinta. Pray about it and the Lord will see you through.” That was my mother’s response the first time I told her that I thought I was depressed. (Elliot). Quinn Elliot is one of the many african americans that suffer from depression. The most common form of mental illnesses is anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, and depression. Anyone can suffer from these mental illnesses, regardless of race, sex, age, so why is there such a huge stigma in the African American community? Many people of color believe that part of being African American is to not have any weakness, including mental illness. Being the most oppressed group of people in America, a lot of African Americans have the mindset that if our people survived slavery we can fight anything. However, studies have shown that many people of …show more content…
Many people of color would rather suffer in silence than admit they need professional help or are suffering from anything in general. The fear of being judged for coming to terms with your illness is so big that many people hide it. While some people believe seeking help is a sign of strength there are not enough people willing to get help, Why?
Every year, 19 million more Americans are diagnosed with a type of depressive illness (Anxiety and depression association of America). Although there is a huge stigma surrounding mental illness in the African American community, there are also stigmas surrounding mental illness itself. The average American believes that only certain people can be depressed; elderly people, teenagers, and new mothers (Depression and African Americans). However, that is very false! Depression doesn't look at any of these factors. Depression is an actual disease! If you found out your child was sick with a fever you get it treated, so why don't parents treat depression the same way? Depression is a chemical imbalance that causes you to constantly have