Self-Care and Mental Health as a Black Man in America

While 48 percent of U.S. women sought mental health services in 2017, only 35 percent of men did, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Additionally, 48 percent of white adults received mental health services, but only 31 percent of Black adults did. A combination of factors might contribute to lower rates among Black men. For example, cultural values, gender norms, and lack of trust in the healthcare system can all impact one's willingness to try therapy.

Furthermore, when you don't see your peers attending therapy, or when you can't find therapists who look like you, it's easy to conclude that therapy isn't "meant for" you. This is something Gregory Alexander knows personally. When his wife April began seeing a therapist to deal with the stress of a chronic illness, Greg was skeptical at first. Greg and April both encourage others to find a therapist that helps you. “You don’t have to stick to the one person, if you feel like you’re not getting the service you need. You can find someone else,” Greg says. Learn more about how April and Greg practice self-care as a couple.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Sanjai Sinha, MD

Sanjai Sinha, MD, is a board-certified physician with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in internal medicine.

Our editorial standards

Meet our experts