Author: Pamela R. Cone
I'm an Honor Student and Senior at Wright State University. This project is a Health Communication Assignment--COM 4250. I am interested in studying Mental Illness Among African American women, Stigma of the Disease and Health Disparity associated with Depression and Bipolar Disorder by examining the lived experiences of African American women with mental illness. I believe by employing the communicative tool of deliberative dialogue communities and healthcare professionals can assist in reducing health disparities.
I have personal experience with this subject through the lived experiences of family members. I have actively researched this subject during the 2014-15 academic year. This project is from the Communication Studies perspective. It is not intended to replace any information offered through medical and/or psychology/psychiatric resources.
I'm an Honor Student and Senior at Wright State University. This project is a Health Communication Assignment--COM 4250. I am interested in studying Mental Illness Among African American women, Stigma of the Disease and Health Disparity associated with Depression and Bipolar Disorder by examining the lived experiences of African American women with mental illness. I believe by employing the communicative tool of deliberative dialogue communities and healthcare professionals can assist in reducing health disparities.
I have personal experience with this subject through the lived experiences of family members. I have actively researched this subject during the 2014-15 academic year. This project is from the Communication Studies perspective. It is not intended to replace any information offered through medical and/or psychology/psychiatric resources.
In 2001 7.5 million African Americans were diagnosed with a mental illness. Among this group, African American women are the most vulnerable. Statistical data indicates that 60% of African American women exhibit signs of a mental illness. Conversely, only 12% of African American women receive treatment. Race, class and gender in addition to cultural nuances are causes for health disparity in African American women in the United States diagnosed with mental illness. (www.cdc.gov) Also to consider is the role of stigma within this community with regard to mental illness. This has contributed to a low percentage of African-American women seeking and receiving treatment. Terrie Williams speaks to Soledad O'Brien about
African American Women & Depression |
Due to health disparities, there is an increased necessity for patient advocates in health care to care for the vulnerable. An advocate is one who speaks in support or defense of another. The role of patient advocacy is a link to lowering health disparity. Studies show a willingness on the part of nurses to serve in this capacity. Traditionally, individuals serving in the medical field rely on policy to originate from outside sources. However, by engaging in the dialogic process they can actually participate in finding solutions.
Communicative approaches can be utilized by health care advocates and patients to contribute to the discussions for improvement of policy and parity. Deliberative Dialogue is a form of discussion aimed at finding the best course of action. Objective is to transform relationships. Conducted with mutual respect for all participants and perspectives. Empowers ordinary citizens to impact and help shape policy. During the dialogue, no one participant should dominate the discussion. Deliberative Dialogue when used effectively can be used as a communicative tool to address with representatives within this community stigma ,and its affects, associated with mental illness to find solutions for more community support . The same format could be extended to health care professionals who act as advocates as well as empowering the individuals who are affected by mental illness. Doing so will aide in reducing health disparity among African American women with mental illness. All references for this project can be found on page 5 of this website. |