July Is BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month

July 18, 2024 / Get Well

July is Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight the unique strengths of and challenges faced by those who are Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), especially as they relate to mental health. Named in honor of Bebe Moore Campbell, a journalist, teacher, author and mental health advocate, this month is dedicated to honoring Moore Campbell’s legacy by focusing on the mental health needs and experiences of BIPOC communities.

To learn more about BIPOC mental health awareness, check out the following links:

Fear of judgment, cultural beliefs, generational differences and reduced access to resources often prevent people of color from addressing their struggles openly and seeking the help they need. To overcome these barriers, open and honest conversations about mental health are absolutely essential. This month, we encourage everyone to take steps toward improving mental health in BIPOC communities.

Check out this handout that busts BIPOC mental health myths.
Take full advantage of the resources available to you:
- EAP for benefited employees
- TimelyCare for ALL employees
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (multilingual)
- Resources for Employees in Crisis
Support the efforts of dedicated allies like the Office of DEI, Office of Employee Wellness and Wellbeing, Office of the Ombuds and Office of Wellness and Mental Health as we continue this important conversation; facilitate access to quality mental health services; and provide resources that promote healing, encourage self- and community care and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.

We can all contribute to a more inclusive, supportive and understanding environment where mental health is prioritized for everyone.

"BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month" in rusty red against white background. Below text and set against same white background are four "pop art–style" drawings of diverse people including two men and two women. One of the woman, at right, wears a blue headscarf.

Submitted by:
Faith Redd-Walker, Office of Employee Wellness and Wellbeing, employeewellbeing@nvcc.edu