Exploring Black/African Appalachians’ Attitudes on Rural Mental Health Care
Abstract
The aim of this study is to explore the attitudes of understudied Black and African Appalachians toward mental health care (MHC). Rates of suicide are increasing fastest among people of color and individuals in rural areas primarily due to decreased access to MHC. This trend is observed in Appalachia, a region often characterized by stigma around mental health, feelings of isolation and hopelessness, and lower education rates. Additionally, Black populations are less likely to utilize MHC compared to their white counterparts.
The project employed a community engaged approach by partnering with the Northeast Tennessee Association of Black Social Workers of Washington County, TN to measure perceived medical discrimination, self-stigma, external stigma, preference for a Black counselor, and important counselor qualities using a questionnaire hosted on Qualtrics. Results show that many participants experienced discrimination in a healthcare setting, and most believe they would be stigmatized by others for seeking MHC. Black and African Appalachians encounter distinct barriers to MHC at the intersection of their rural context and racialized identity. Partnering with trusted community figures such as pastors to share mental health education and employing Black clinicians at mental health and primary clinics may encourage Black/African clients to use MHC.
Start Time
15-4-2026 11:00 AM
End Time
15-4-2026 11:15 AM
Room Number
Reece Museum
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Presentation Subtype
Community Engagement Showcase
Exploring Black/African Appalachians’ Attitudes on Rural Mental Health Care
Reece Museum
The aim of this study is to explore the attitudes of understudied Black and African Appalachians toward mental health care (MHC). Rates of suicide are increasing fastest among people of color and individuals in rural areas primarily due to decreased access to MHC. This trend is observed in Appalachia, a region often characterized by stigma around mental health, feelings of isolation and hopelessness, and lower education rates. Additionally, Black populations are less likely to utilize MHC compared to their white counterparts.
The project employed a community engaged approach by partnering with the Northeast Tennessee Association of Black Social Workers of Washington County, TN to measure perceived medical discrimination, self-stigma, external stigma, preference for a Black counselor, and important counselor qualities using a questionnaire hosted on Qualtrics. Results show that many participants experienced discrimination in a healthcare setting, and most believe they would be stigmatized by others for seeking MHC. Black and African Appalachians encounter distinct barriers to MHC at the intersection of their rural context and racialized identity. Partnering with trusted community figures such as pastors to share mental health education and employing Black clinicians at mental health and primary clinics may encourage Black/African clients to use MHC.
