Grant: Planning and Dissemination Grant - Institute Community Support

According to Public Health Ontario (2023), effectively addressing the mental health needs of the Black community requires a comprehensive approach that recognizes their diverse experiences, cultures, and approaches to mental health. Given the significant disparity in mental health service utilization between Black and White Canadians, a culturally tailored psychoeducation program is proposed to empower individuals in taking charge of their mental well-being. The project aims to collaborate with stakeholders within the Black community, including researchers, mental health practitioners, and community members, to leverage community expertise in mental health and identify priority areas and key adaptations. The framework will incorporate proven effective elements of psychoeducation and mental health education, covering diverse themes such as, but not limited to, brain and physical health, coping skills, medication adherence, genetic predispositions, life stressors, racial trauma, sex, gender, intersectionality, and self-care, ensuring cultural responsiveness. Ultimately, the resulting framework holds potential to guide future mental health interventions and programs for mental health service providers. By enhancing preventive mental healthcare for Black Canadians and addressing systemic disparities in accessing mental health services, it contributes to a more inclusive and equitable mental health support system.