Striking a Balance

Abstract

Healthcare practitioners need to recognize and address the lack of support given to Black Americans to ensure fair healthcare delivery. This chapter highlights the importance of providing healthcare practitioners in mental healthcare with the knowledge, skills, and awareness needed to identify and tackle the disparities experienced by African Americans. This analysis explores the historical background, underlying causes, and implicit biases contributing to the lack of assistance, drawing on Williams et al. research on systemic inadequacies. The chapter discusses methods to enhance cultural competence, foster diversity in healthcare environments, and amplify the perspectives of Black patients, specifically on disparities in mental health. Healthcare workers can significantly break down obstacles to fair care and advocate for health equity for Black Americans through their involvement in this educational process.