Milwaukee, WI, November 2022: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on communities of color, including Black communities, which have been hit particularly hard by the virus. The pandemic has also exacerbated the pre-existing mental health crisis within the Black community.
The pandemic has brought about a range of challenges for Black people, including financial stress, limited access to healthcare, and increased exposure to trauma, all of which can have negative effects on mental health.
Black people are more likely to experience job loss or reduced work hours, which can lead to financial strain and insecurity. This can cause stress, anxiety, and depression, which can lead to a worsening of existing mental health conditions. The pandemic has also limited access to healthcare, which can prevent Black people from receiving necessary mental health treatment.
Additionally, Black people are more likely to experience trauma, such as police brutality and systemic racism, which can have a long-term impact on mental health. The pandemic has also increased the number of deaths and illnesses within the Black community, leading to grief, loss, and trauma.
It is crucial that we address the mental health crisis within the Black community during and after the pandemic. This includes providing access to mental health resources, addressing systemic racism and its impact on mental health, and addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to mental health disparities.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis contact one of the free to low-cost mental health providers, below:
Free Mental Health Resources in Milwaukee
You can call 2-1-1 for more information.
The Mental Health Emergency Center (MHEC) is the new county-wide psychiatric Emergency Department offering 24/7/365 crisis mental health assessment, stabilization, treatment, and transition care management for children, adolescents and adults.
1525 N. 12th Street Milwaukee WI 53205 (414) 966-3030
Access Clinics
Serves uninsured Milwaukee County residents. Provides mental health assessments, medications and therapy referrals. Clients are seen on a first-come, first served basis, and there may be an extended wait time.
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Walk-in hours for initial assessment: 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Access Clinic South
1635 W. National Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53204 414-257-7900
Access Clinic East
210 W. Capitol Dr. Milwaukee, WI 53212 414-257-7665