FAITH-BASED MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVE

The Faith-Based Mental Health Initiative

The overall mission of the Faith-Based Mental Health Initiative (FBMHI) is to increase awareness of mental health patterns and trends; to increase knowledge of effective symptom management; and to promote access to culturally-competent services, particularly those that expertly integrate Psychology and Theology.

A primary strategy is to collaborate with faith communities, benefiting from the prominence of the Church within the African American Community. Research indicates that African Americans are more likely to seek advice regarding their mental health needs from Pastors, Ministers, and other church leaders. We are currently partnering with various churches on three primary projects: (1) the African American Mental Health Guide  and (2) an annual Mental Health Conference: Speaking Out About Mental Health in the African American Church and Community; and (3) quarterly mental health awareness activities.