The Mental Health Effects of Marginalization

‍Human Rights Day is observed every year on December 10th and serves as a bold reminder that we have a lot more work to do to make sure every human has equal rights. In an effort to spread awareness, we’re shedding light on the fact that marginalized groups are at a steep disadvantage when it comes to accessing care and treatment in many aspects of healthcare, which has major implications on mental health. Members of marginalized populations suffer increased stress and anxiety, increased likelihood of poverty, and low self-esteem. Without access to mental health resources, these conditions can become more severe.
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Even when care is accessed, there is a lack of proper diagnoses and treatment. According to the American Psychiatric Association, a lack of cultural understanding by healthcare providers contributes to underdiagnosing and misdiagnosing. Lack of diversity, language barriers, and stigmas continue to be the leading causes of cultural misunderstandings and disparities in healthcare, including mental health care. Medens Health is committed to providing a safe, accessible and welcoming environment for marginalized populations. We’ve outlined our dedication to being a culturally responsive practice who strives to amplify marginalized voices. Medens takes social responsibility for narrowing mental health disparities by:

• Employing a diverse staff
• Improved access to care
• Providing specialized training for employees to raise cultural awareness
• Collaborating with local and national advocacy groups
• Creating an environment where sharing pronouns is safe and encouraged by all
• Having translators available
• Allowing patients the option to request a provider of a specific gender identity
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We encourage you to consider the following, to support human rights and become an ally to marginalized groups in your local community.

• Listen - Pay attention to the world around you and silenced voices.
• Speak out - Recognize your privilege and use it for the betterment of your community by calling out injustice, inequality and racism
• Educate yourself - The United Nations and the ACLU are great resources on history, current events, and educational articles. There are also a multitude of books that can help you understand history and current events related to inequality, racism, homophobia and more.
• Be an ally - Being a vocal ally not only supports marginalized groups, but also helps bring awareness to the injustices and disadvantages they face. It also encourages others to become allies.
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If you or someone you know is a member of a marginalized group and struggling with mental health, reach out to us by phone or text at (833) 624-5400, send us a message using our online contact form, or to register as a new patient get started here.

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^Disclaimer:

^{‍The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical or mental health. If you don’t currently have a therapist, we can connect you with one who is qualified to give you safe, professional, and ethical advice regarding your mental health.}

^{If you or someone you are responsible for is experiencing a medical emergency, is considering harming themselves or others, or is otherwise in imminent danger, you should call 9-1-1 and/or take them to the nearest emergency room.}