June 26, 2023
Youth Mental Health – Staying Silent is Not An Option
by Ruth Aman
Mental health challenges are not a new reality, yet within recent years there has been a sharp increase in those who are below 30 years old and dealing with severe mental health issues. Even as young as 7 years old, studies have shown that unlike any generation before, currently youth and young adults are suffering from things such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, psychosis and other related issues at a much more alarming rate. When one looks more deeply into the statistics it is clear to see that certain groups experience these things much more commonly than others. The Black population is one of these groups.
Since Black Canadians tend to experience more racism, discrimination, and systematic oppression, they deal with mental health challenges to a different extent. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, rates of depression amongst Black individuals are almost six times higher than those of the general population. When Black Canadians seek out medical help and assistance, they unfortunately also experience discrimination, instilling a fear of medical systems within them while also heightening the mental issues they face. Therefore, it leads to a lose-lose situation for them. And this unfortunately contributes to a greater culture of silence.
Coming from an African and/or Black culture, many would acknowledge the fact that mental health issues are rarely acknowledged. Many of our elders may have dealt with these challenges, but rarely is it spoken about or confronted, leaving generations to come feeling helpless and misunderstood by their families or community members. Rooted in insecurity or fear of acceptance, many individuals continue suffering and facing these battles alone.
Every Youth’s Struggle
For youth who are raised in Western society, they face a great conflict within themselves. On one hand, they know that there are resources available to help them unpack the stress, feelings, and trauma that come with dealing with mental issues. At the same time, they are fully unable to express the desire to receive the assistance they need because they believe that if they speak, they won’t be heard. They are even afraid to speak up about the challenges they have because they are scared of the response they would receive from those closest to them. Many times certain youth who have been dealing with depression and anxiety have been called ‘lazy’ and ‘irresponsible’ by their parents and caretakers. Many times there are youths who have ADHD who have been called troublemakers. These labels by those in our community and our own families have caused youth to feel misunderstood and also continue to suffer in silence.
Breaking the Culture of Silence
It would be an error to believe that this culture of silence would be broken in one day, but I’d like to suggest a few things that would begin to build a bridge between those in the community, parents, young adults, and youth.
For the community leaders and activists, I would encourage them to promote more mental health discussions with elders in the community and those who are the heads of the family. Of course, they may be hesitant, but the community must push forth initiatives that create a safe space for discussing, learning, and recognizing the signs of mental health struggles.
For parents, caretakers, and guardians I would advise them to become emotionally healthy individuals first and foremost. You are unable to deal with and have the capacity for other people’s struggles, especially your children, if you are not aware of your own self. Understand that life comes with challenges and that experiencing things such as anxiety, depression, and the like are not things to be ashamed of.
For the youth, I want to remind you that you have the unique ability to make a difference in your family and community. This is your chance to be a leader and speak up for what matters to you. It may come with being misunderstood and disregarded but do not be discouraged.
I also implore you to give the elders and parents and other leaders grace as they are navigating a new landscape. As frustrating as it may be to deal with their remarks, be patient and continue to build the courage to advocate for yourselves.
The reason why I am advising these is because as a community we are always told to be strong and carry a specific image of ourselves to be perceived a certain way. I want us to challenge the way we understand the concept of strength. Perhaps it’s not about having it all together and looking perfect, but rather acknowledging our pain and our reality and then striving to make a real difference. For our communities to truly be empowered we must be open and vulnerable. Therefore, staying silent is not an option.
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Ruth Aman is a Project Officer with Black History Ottawa. She holds a Bachelor of Global and International Studies (Honors) degree, with a specialization in Law and Social Justice from Carleton University.