Black Youth Mental Health Care
Black Health Alliance researcher Tiyondah Fante-Coleman drew on lessons learned from the BHA’s comprehensive Pathways to Care project to understand the impact of anti-Black racism (ABR) on Black youths’ mental health and experience of mental-healthcare.
Evidence suggests that Black youth in Ontario face significant barriers in accessing mental health care. These barriers include systemic racism, long wait times, lack of culturally responsive services, and financial constraints. Reports indicate that Black youth wait longer for mental health services compared to their peers, with some studies showing an average wait time of 16 months. Additionally, the mental health care system often lacks representation and understanding of Black cultural contexts, further hindering effective care.
We need targeted, culturally adapted interventions at all levels — individual, provider, and system — in the mental healthcare system to improve access to care for Black youth. Providers and organizations must address anti-Black racism.