United Way of Central Indiana announces panelists for mental health-focused installment of Understanding the Roots of Racism series
INDIANAPOLIS – United Way of Central Indiana (UWCI) will present an installment of its popular Understanding the Roots of Racism series dedicated to the interconnections between mental health and racial inequality on Wednesday, February 24, online from 5-6:15 p.m.
Through this panel, the history of racism in mental health care will be explored, along with discussion about ways to better support the well-being, resiliency and whole health of individuals and families in Central Indiana.
Moderated by Ashlee Weaver, Director of Community Impact and Basic Needs at UWCI, panelists include Veronica Derricks, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology at Indiana University; Cortnei Flucas, Unified Student Supports Officer at Indianapolis Public Schools; Crystal Wade, MSW, LSW, Healing Hearts of Indy; and Brandon Warren, Founder and President, We LIVE Indy.
Despite immense need, only one in three Black Americans who need mental health care receive it. Data shows Black patients are less likely to receive guideline-consistent care, are less frequently included in medical research, and are more likely to receive care in an emergency room than with a licensed mental health specialist. Lack of access to care, stigma, social pressures associated with mental health, and the economic and educational inequities facing Black Americans all play a role in the complicated intersection of race and mental health.
Understanding the Roots of Racism is free, and participants may attend by registering here.
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About United Way of Central Indiana: United Way is a community of donors, advocates, volunteers, and partners who fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community. United Way invites all members of our community to LIVE UNITED by giving, advocating and volunteering to improve lives in Central Indiana. Visit www.uwci.org to learn more.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jessica DiSanto | Senior Director of Communications at United Way of Central Indiana