The role of Race/Racism on Black Canadians Mental Health Term Paper

The Role of Race/Racism on Black Canadians Mental Health
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The Role of Race/Racism on Black Canadians Mental Health
Introduction
Political, economic, and social factors shape the conditions where people grow, work, and live. These factors are essential for the health and well-being of all individuals. There are numerous inequalities based on race that translate to different outcome among certain demographic groups that are systemic, unavoidable, and unfair (Public Health Agency of Canada). Racism is the major causes of health inequalities, which exacerbates the issue of mental health. Therefore, race is an important determinant and crucial driver of health inequities, especially for the racialized Canadians. Black Canadian communities face numerous inequalities in the healthcare system. In several instances, Black Canadians have advocated for more recognition and interventions to address healthcare issues, particularly related to mental wellbeing (Westoll, 2020).
Many Black Canadians have no access to structural and financial resources to access mental health services. Recently, there have been calls to address Black Canadians' mental health needs because they face unique challenges based on racial prejudices. Some of the challenges leading to mental health problems include increased poverty levels and social exclusion. The black people with no access to mental health treatment face challenges in schools, family conflicts, and high rates of crimes. The purpose of the discourse is mapping evidence on the role of race and racism on black Canadians mental health.
Background
Racial prejudice against black people is a historic problem that remains prevalent in Canada. It is a phenomenon affecting millions of black people residing within Canada. It is evident that these systemic prejudice, discrimination, and aggressions are known social stressors that heighten the risk of negative mental health. Some of the prevalent mental health challenges among black Canadian residents include suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and depression. There are numerous studies showing evidence that black Canadians have no access to appropriate mental health services and support. These barriers occur based on racial and systematic inequalities that have prevailed for a long period.
Approach to Literature Search
While researching for the sources, the study selection entailed an iterative process. The topics identified included the role of scoping review, population context, the outcome, keywords, and databases searched. The objective of this study was to locate and map the existing condition of mental health and addiction care for the Blacks in Canada. Included in the findings were children and youth who were under the age of 30. Again, the context was a setting in which mental healthcare and addiction services are provided to the Back population, and the results pegged on obstacles and enablers to care. The keywords embraced were mental health, Black, Canada, youth, family, community organizations, addiction, substance abuse, and best practices. Initially, the focus was on mental health and well-being. Again, the research integrated addiction into the picture because of its role in facilitati...