Political Quotes

“I thank the gentlewoman so much for her admonishment to us to continue working, to continue doing what is necessary for those of us who live in the Black community, for those who are affected by what is a lack of treatment in the Black community, particularly in the area of mental health. This may explain why Black adults are 20 percent more likely to be reported having serious psychological distress than White adults. They are also more likely to have feelings of sadness, helplessness, and worthlessness compared to their White counterparts. And while less likely than their White counterparts to die from suicide, Black teenagers are more likely to attempt suicide than our White teenagers. Socioeconomic determinants have been found to have significant effects on mental health. In the Black community, class and poverty are two powerful, impactful factors. Black adults living in poverty are two to three times more likely to report serious psychological distress than those living above the poverty line. Black people of all ages are more likely to be victims of serious violent crime than non-Hispanic Whites, making them more likely to meet the diagnostic criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder. Mental health conditions do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, or identity. Anyone can experience the challenges of mental illness, regardless of their background.…”