Conduct a literature search to locate a journal article related to the health or health care practices of African-American Present a summary of the journal article, and examine how the information presented may impact your nursing practice. Please provide a copy of the journal article (or hyperlink) if possible. 400 words https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3209742/pdf/JPE20-1_PTR_A7_045-053.pdf
Title: “Exploring African American Women’s Perceptions of Mental Health and Help-Seeking”
Summary:
The selected journal article by Boyd, Ogrin, and Reitz presents a qualitative study that aimed to explore the perceptions of mental health and help-seeking among African American women. The study was conducted in an urban area in the United States and involved participants who had personal or familial experiences with mental health issues. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and thematic analysis was utilized to identify common themes and patterns within the data.
Several significant findings emerged from the study. Firstly, there was a pervasive stigma associated with mental health among the African American women, leading to reluctance in seeking help. The participants believed that mental health challenges were not openly discussed within their communities, highlighting the need for increased awareness and education to dispel misconceptions surrounding mental health.
Secondly, the study revealed that stressors associated with being an African American woman, such as racism, discrimination, and family expectations, played a crucial role in their mental health status. These stressors often exacerbated feelings of depression and anxiety. Participants expressed the need for culturally competent and sensitive mental health services that understand and address these unique stressors.
Another significant finding was the preference for informal sources of support, such as family, friends, and church communities, over professional help. Participants described the importance of social connections in coping with mental health challenges, as these informal networks provided understanding, empathy, and shared experiences. This highlights the importance of considering and incorporating these informal sources of support into nursing practice when caring for African American women with mental health concerns.
Implications for Nursing Practice:
The information presented in this article has several implications for nursing practice, particularly in caring for African American women. First and foremost, nurses need to be aware of the stigma surrounding mental health within the African American community. By understanding that this stigma exists, nurses can work toward creating safe and non-judgmental environments in healthcare settings, where African American women feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns.
Additionally, healthcare professionals must recognize the impact of racial and gender-related stressors on mental health among African American women. By acknowledging and addressing the unique stressors faced by this population, nurses can provide more comprehensive and holistic care. This may involve collaborating with community organizations, advocating for policy changes that address social determinants of health, and integrating culturally competent care into their practice.
Furthermore, it is essential for nurses to understand and respect the preference for informal sources of support among African American women. By incorporating and involving family, friends, and community networks in the care plan, nurses can strengthen social support systems and enhance the overall well-being of the individual. This may involve facilitating discussions about mental health within these networks, providing education on available resources, and fostering connections with faith-based organizations.
In conclusion, this journal article sheds light on the perceptions of mental health and help-seeking among African American women. The study highlights the need to address the stigma, racial and gender-related stressors, and preference for informal support systems in nursing practice. By incorporating this knowledge into their care, nurses can promote the mental health and well-being of African American women and contribute to reducing health disparities in this population.