BIPOC Mental Health Month 2026

“No one wants to say, ‘I’m not in control of my mind.’ No one wants to say, ‘The person I love is
not in control of their mind.’ But people of color really don’t want to say it because we already
feel stigmatized by virtue of skin color or eye shape or accent and we don’t want any more
reasons for anyone to say, ‘You’re not good enough.’”
– Bebe Moore Campbell

When we use the term “BIPOC,” that means “Black, Indigenous, (and) People of Color,”
referring to folks of Black, Indigenous American, Asian American, Pacific Islander, Latin
American, Middle Eastern, and/or North African descent.

Formally recognized in June 2008, Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health
Awareness Month was created to bring awareness to the unique struggles that
underrepresented groups face regarding mental illness in the US. Bebe Moore Campbell was an
American author, journalist, teacher, and mental health advocate who worked tirelessly to shed
light on the mental health needs of the Black community and other underrepresented
communities.

To continue the visionary work of Bebe Moore Campbell, each year Mental Health America
(MHA) develops a public education campaign dedicated to addressing the mental health needs
of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).

Historically, BIPOC communities have faced significant barriers in getting mental health care.
Systemic racism, cultural stigmas, and socio-economic disparities have made it tough to access
crucial resources. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, only one in three Black
adults who need mental health care get it. The same goes for Latino, Asian, and Native
American communities, who also have lower rates of mental health service use compared to
their white counterparts. These disparities show the urgent necessity for mental health support
systems that can meet the unique needs of BIPOC individuals. The following are some
objectives of BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month.

Raise awareness. The primary goal of this observance is to shine a spotlight on the unique
mental health challenges faced by minority populations. By sharing stories and experiences, we
can help educate the public and foster empathy and understanding.

Promote mental wellness. The initiative encourages individuals and communities to prioritize
mental health by providing resources, support networks, and information about mental health
services tailored to the needs of BIPOC communities.

Combat stigma. BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a platform to challenge the
stigma surrounding mental health in minority populations. By encouraging open discussions
and addressing cultural barriers, we can dismantle stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding
mental health.

Amplify voices. This observance recognizes the importance of diverse voices, perspectives, and
experiences within mental health conversations. By highlighting the stories and achievements
of individuals from BIPOC communities, we can empower others and inspire hope.
By actively engaging in conversations around BIPOC mental health, you can help promote
understanding and acceptance, challenging existing social norms and biases. Share information,
resources, and personal experiences on social media using relevant hashtags.

Take the time to educate yourself on the unique mental health challenges faced by BIPOC
communities. Attend webinars, workshops, and community events held during BIPOC Mental
Health Awareness Month to deepen your understanding and promote inclusive mental health
practices.

Make a difference in your community by supporting local organizations that focus on BIPOC
mental health initiatives. Volunteer, donate, or participate in their events to contribute
positively to the cause.

Mental health education and awareness campaigns help change perceptions and reduce
stigma. By getting communities involved in open conversations about mental health and
sharing stories of resilience and recovery, these initiatives are creating a more supportive
environment where people feel empowered to seek help.

This July, let’s honor BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month by acknowledging the past,
celebrating the progress, and committing to a future where mental healthcare is accessible to
all. Through our combined efforts, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those
who have been historically underserved and overlooked, paving the way for a brighter,
healthier future for everyone.

For questions and appointments, write to us on our website or call us at (585) 442-6960.