“Dr. Walker, who specializes in Black mental health, said that in the African American community especially, “a cultural investment in not telling folks your business” can prevent someone from asking for help.”

“In the book, Walker suggests asking a clinician what percentage of their clients are African American or Jamaican or who are first-generation US citizens. She goes on to write, ‘If the question elicits discomfort, that might be all the data you need.’”

“If individuals felt they could get the help they needed and without judgment, I do feel more people would get help.”

“Walker attributes the rise to ‘a cultural legacy of survival in the face of brutal circumstances’ that discourages many from seeking help when they need it — or even identifying that help is needed.”

“Competent people can develop impostor syndrome by internalizing societal messages of ‘less than,’ which only compounds impostor syndrome further. ‘With women and people who are members of certain racial-ethnic minority groups, we see it more often...’”

“She was a very high-functioning individual. So people assume. She doesn’t present like someone who is depressed and downtrodden...people oftentimes don’t look like what they are going through.”

“I do believe that 988 being synonymous with 911 will go a long way for our public awareness.”

“While uniquely Black mental health challenges are rooted in systemic racism, much of Walker’s work lives in helping Black people who are struggling find the tools for self-care amidst all that’s going on. ”

“‘I wrote ‘The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health’ because I wanted to shift the conversation about mental health and the African American community.’”

“Social distance isn’t social exclusion, and we can dig in for more meaningful relationships rather than trying to force our old habits and old routines. ”

“…it is also important to be intentional about how you talk to yourself during this time of rapid change and uncertainty.”

“When we get our thoughts out of our head and onto the page, we don’t get stuck in our minds ruminating over the sad, the negative, and the stressful.”

“We are all going through an unprecedented and stressful time in history…We can cut ourselves some slack if, mentally, we’re just not up for the pomp and circumstance.”

“Psychology professor Rheeda Walker, the lead researcher for the study, said this research [finding predictors for suicide attempts differ by ethnic group] is important for suicide prevention.”

“According to Dr. Walker, the best way to help someone dealing with this is to be present, to truly listen, and to never assume that they are doing okay.”

“The perception that suicide isn’t a black problem makes it difficult for parents, teachers and others to spot warning signs.”

“The World Health Organization estimates one in four people worldwide are affected by a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lives. But Dr. Walker says African Americans are less likely to seek help for it.”

“Racial discrimination, whether it’s derogatory language or unequal treatment, impacts communities and individuals in different ways. For children, the effects are sometimes emotional scars, and...even thoughts of death.”

“What is less well known is that young, emerging adults who have a less than positive cultural identity and who internalize racism are also more prone to depression, anxiety, and thoughts of suicide.”