Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in African-Americans

Abstract

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that occurs when people have experienced or been exposed to a traumatic event. PTSD is important to assess in African American clients due to systemic and constant traumas that dates back to slavery. This multigenerational trauma is demonstrated as many African Americans experience socioeconomic disadvantages with increased exposure to poverty and crime. Additionally, mental health stigma microaggressions, and lack of knowledge often serves as common barriers that prevents African Americans from seeking mental health treatment. To supplement traditional theories, mental health professionals should rely upon movement therapy, Ubuntu practices, emancipation circles, and the church to augment mental health treatment.