Breaking the Stigma: African American Male Wellness Agency’s Real Men, Real Talk Initiative Tackles Mental Health Challenges

The African American Male Wellness Agency has been addressing men’s mental health through their Real Men, Real Talk initiative for years. This initiative aims to get Black men to discuss their traumas, experiences, and struggles. Research from the National Institute of Health shows that people of color are more likely to end therapy prematurely due to cultural barriers with their therapist. Dr. Rayshawn Wilson, the Director of Mental Wellness at the African American Male Wellness Agency, acknowledges this challenge. He notes that trauma, unforgiveness, racism, and discrimination are significant reasons why Black men attend events or seek therapy.

The Real Men, Real Talk initiative provides a safe space for Black men to engage with individuals they can trust and relate to. This platform allows them to find mentors, share experiences, and support one another. Dr. Wilson emphasized the power of community in helping individuals open up and find strategies to cope with their challenges.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for Black men between the ages of 15 and 24, as reported by the National Alliance on Mental Health. The African American Male Wellness Agency operates in 18 cities nationwide, including Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Toledo. They will be hosting a national Real Men, Real Talk event on July 18th to continue their mission of promoting mental wellness among Black men.