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What is this research about?

Canada is one of the most ethnically diverse countries with Black people representing the third-largest population of racialized people in Canada. Research shows that Black children and youth in Canada experience more challenges to accessing mental healthcare. Evidence also shows that Black youth who do not access treatment are likely to face difficulty in school, family conflict and increased contact with the justice system. This review looks at literature on the barriers and facilitators to mental healthcare for Black youth in Canada.

What you need to know

  • Black children and youth’s barriers and facilitators to accessing mental healthcare in Canada must be identified to understand their needs and to reduce disparities.
  • Systemic barriers for Black youth to accessing mental healthcare include longer wait times, poor access to practitioners, geographical challenges and financial barriers to care.
  • Practitioner-related barriers include racism and discrimination from providers, a lack of available Black professionals in the mental healthcare sector, and a lack of support to provide culturally competent care.
  • Personal and community-related barriers include different forms stigma, and a lack of knowledge of services.
  • Facilitators to accessing mental healthcare include support from family and friends, teachers, faith-based leaders, and a good relationship with providers.

This Research Snapshot was based on the article, “Barriers and Facilitators to Accessing Mental Healthcare in Canada for Black Youth: A Scoping Review” published in Adolescent Research Review in 2020.

Check out the full research snapshot here:

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