July 2025 marks the 16th annual National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, also known as BIPOC Mental Health Month. This observance was established in 2008 when congress officially recognized July in honor of author and health advocate Bebe Moore Cambell. Cambell (1950-2006) co-founded a NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) chapter to support Black families affected by mental illness.

Through storytelling and advocacy, she worked to break the silence and stigma surrounding mental health in communities of color. Her efforts led to the national designation of this month to raise awareness about the unique mental health needs of racial, ethnic, and other marginalized groups.

This month matters because BIPOC communities face disproportionate challenges related to mental health. Data consistently show higher rates of anxiety, depression, PTSD and other mental health conditions among these populations. Yet, they are significantly less likely to receive treatment. For example, fewer than 50% of African American adults and only 40% of Asian Americans have accessed therapy in recent years.

Many of the barriers to care are deeply rooted in systemic inequities, including racism and discrimination. These factors have fostered a longstanding mistrust of the health care system fueled by both historical abuses and ongoing implicit bias among providers. Such bias can lead to misdiagnosis, under-treatment, or outright dismissal of symptoms. Cultural insensitivity in care-when services fail to reflect or respect diverse values and lived experiences-further alienates BIPOC individuals seeking support.

Supporting BIPOC communities in receiving equitable mental and physical health services requires a multi-layered approach, that addresses systemic inequities while empowering communities at the grassroots level. Several critical actions are still needed, both at the institutional and community level, to break down long-standing barriers to care.

Expand access to culturally competent care by increasing the number of BIPOC healthcare providers and ensuring all professionals are trained in cultural humility and trauma-informed practices. Health services must be offered in multiple languages and accessible formats, such as telehealth and mobile clinics, to meet the diverse needs of these communities.

Improve health insurance equity by advocating for Medicaid expansion and policies that reduce out-of-pocket costs. It’s also essential to address immigration-related fears that prevent individuals from seeking care by safeguarding patient confidentiality and rights.

Invest in BIPOC mental health initiatives through funding for community-based programs that emphasize prevention, education, and peer support. These efforts should also recognize and support traditional and ancestral healing practices that resonate with cultural values.

Tackle structural racism in healthcare by reforming biased systems, including unequal treatment in areas such as pain management and mental health diagnosis. Institutions must be held accountable for disparities in care outcomes through audits, transparent data collection, and community oversight.

Communities themselves play a vital role in dismantling these barriers:

• Normalize conversations about mental health through local forums, storytelling events, and workshops that create safe spaces for open discussion. Encourage intergenerational dialogue to break through longstanding stigma.

• Strengthen grassroots outreach by partnering with trusted leaders, faith-based groups, and local organizations to connect people with resources. Use culturally relevant platforms–such as barbershops, churches, and social media–to raise awareness.

• Empower community advocates and peer support networks by training individuals to serve as health navigators, peer counselors, and wellness ambassadors. Support youth-led and survivor-led initiatives that foster healing and resilience.

• Push for policy change by mobilizing around legislation that improves health care access, funds mental health programs, and eliminates health disparities. Encourage voting and advocacy for leaders who prioritize equity and public health.

When we turn awareness into action — by combining meaningful policy reform with culturally grounded community involvement–we can begin to dismantle the barriers that BIPOC individuals face. This July can serve as a powerful step toward healing, equity, and lasting change for all.

— Missy Dikken is with Womens Rural Advocacy Programs