Editor’s Note: Our guest contributor today is Dr. Cleopatra Lightfoot-Booker, a nationally recognized Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Chief Clinical Officer at Forge Health. She is a dedicated advocate for mental health access and policy reform, working to expand care and combat stigma. She offers a perspective and concrete actions for engaging in and appreciating Black History Month.

Mental health is deeply intertwined with culture, history, and identity. As we observe Black History Month, it is crucial to reflect on the importance of recognizing and celebrating diverse heritages, particularly in the realm of mental health. Acknowledging both the triumphs and struggles of the past is essential for fostering healing, understanding, and progress. When heritage and historical contributions are ignored, entire communities can suffer the mental health consequences of erasure, discrimination, and systemic inequities.

Acknowledging the Past: The Good and the Ugly

The history of Black Americans is marked by resilience, innovation, and immense contributions to society. From the civil rights movement to advancements in science, literature, and the arts, Black individuals have played a fundamental role in shaping the country. However, this history also includes painful experiences of slavery, segregation, discrimination, and systemic racism. Failing to recognize both the achievements and struggles of Black communities can perpetuate feelings of invisibility, invalidation, and generational trauma.

Historical traumas—such as forced displacement, discrimination in healthcare, and economic disenfranchisement—can have lasting effects on mental health. Intergenerational trauma can manifest in anxiety, depression, and distrust in institutions. By acknowledging these realities, society can work toward healing and equity, ensuring that past injustices are not repeated.

The Mental Health Impact of Cultural Erasure

When a culture’s contributions are ignored, the community’s collective mental health can suffer. Black Americans have historically faced stigma in mental health treatment, barriers to access, and culturally insensitive care. Ignoring their history and contributions can deepen feelings of exclusion and marginalization, leading to distrust in healthcare systems and reluctance to seek help.

Recognizing Black history in mental health discussions affirms identity and provides validation. It allows individuals to see themselves reflected in history, breaking cycles of alienation and promoting resilience. Moreover, it fosters a sense of community and belonging, essential elements for positive mental well-being.

Ways to Recognize and Celebrate Black History Month

1. Educate and Reflect – Take time to learn about Black history, particularly in the context of mental health. Reading books by Black authors, attending lectures, and engaging in discussions can broaden understanding. Websites such as The National Museum of African American History and Culture, The Association for the Study of African American Life and History, and BlackPast provide extensive resources.
2. Support Black Mental Health Initiatives – Contribute to organizations that focus on mental health awareness and access for Black communities, such as the Black Mental Health Alliance for Education & Consultation, Inc., Therapy for Black Girls , and Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation.
3. Honor Black Trailblazers in Mental Health – Celebrate the achievements of Black psychologists and social workers such as Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark, who conducted groundbreaking research on the impact of segregation on Black children, and Dr. Joy DeGruy, known for her work on Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome.
4. Engage in Cultural Events – Attend Black History Month celebrations, museum exhibits, and community events that highlight Black culture and heritage. Virtual events such as The Smithsonian’s Black History Month programs or the NAACP’s online forums are accessible ways to participate.
5. Advocate for Mental Health Equity – Push for policy changes that promote equitable access to mental health services for Black communities by engaging with advocacy groups such as The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and The Steve Fund.

Systemic Challenges and the Impact on Healthcare

The failure to recognize and celebrate heritage in healthcare can result in:

• Cultural Mistrust – When medical institutions fail to acknowledge historical injustices, patients may be less likely to seek care.
• Implicit Bias in Treatment – Without cultural awareness, mental health professionals may misdiagnose or overlook the unique experiences of Black individuals.
• Underrepresentation in the Field – A lack of Black mental health professionals can contribute to a disconnect in culturally competent care.
• Limited Access to Culturally Responsive Care – Without investment in diverse mental health services, Black individuals may not receive the support they need.

Conclusion

Celebrating and recognizing heritage in mental health is not just about history — it is about fostering inclusion, equity, and healing. Black History Month provides an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of Black individuals while addressing the systemic challenges that impact mental health. By acknowledging the past, honoring contributions, and advocating for change, we can create a society where every individual’s mental well-being is valued and supported.

This article by Dr. Cleopatra Lightfoot-Booker first appeared on LinkedIn: February 11, 2025. To learn more about Dr. Lightfoot-Booker and her work or to explore collaboration, contact her at [email protected].