Supporting Mental Well-being During Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the unique mental health challenges faced by racial and ethnic minority communities in the United States. These challenges can include cultural stigma, lack of access to culturally competent care, historical trauma, and socioeconomic disparities. For example, in 2020, fewer than one in every two African American adults received care for mental health, and in 2018, Asian Americans were 60% less likely to receive mental health treatment than non-Hispanic Whites.

Summer, while often associated with joy and relaxation, can also bring its own set of emotional issues for some, including heightened anxiety, body image concerns, or pressure to be constantly "on." For minority communities, these societal pressures can be compounded by existing disparities in mental health support.

Massage therapy offers a holistic approach that can complement traditional mental health care by providing a safe, calming space and addressing the physical manifestations of emotional stress:

• Stress Hormone Reduction: Massage has been shown to lower cortisol levels, reducing the physiological impact of stress.

• Neurotransmitter Release: It can stimulate the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, which are neurotransmitters associated with feelings of pleasure and well-being.

• Mind-Body Connection: Therapeutic touch can help individuals reconnect with their bodies, fostering a sense of grounding and reducing feelings of dissociation that can accompany stress and anxiety.

• Creating a Safe Space: For many, the massage environment offers a judgment-free zone where they can simply relax and be present, which can be particularly beneficial for those navigating mental health challenges.

This July, we encourage everyone, especially those in minority communities, to prioritize their mental health. Consider incorporating massage therapy as a supportive tool in your journey toward emotional well-being and inner peace this summer.