The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia recognizes the profound mental health disparities affecting Nova Scotians of African descent. Together, with its partners, the Foundation is working to change that.
Black Nova Scotians are approximately 20% more likely to experience mental illness and addiction yet significantly less likely to use mental health services. Culturally appropriate programs that address the needs of African Nova Scotian communities are vital to increasing availability, awareness and access to mental health services along with help-seeking behaviours.
In partnership with the Nova Scotia Brotherhood Initiative, the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia is working to enhance the culturally appropriate mental health programming offered by this trusted resource. Thanks to fundraising initiatives by local business, Ana + Zac, the Foundation has kickstarted the Nova Scotia Brotherhood Fund with a $10,000 donation to help expand the mental health services currently being offered by the Brotherhood.
The Foundation has also launched the Pringle-Wilson Indigenous, Black, Communities of Colour Grant—an annual funding initiative to support groups and individuals within these communities to create and foster awareness for mental health supports within the BIPOC population. Currently rates of mental illness, addiction, and suicide among BIPOC are as much as three times higher than settler communities. The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia acknowledges this in relation to historical and systemic racism, and marginalization of these groups in Canada. This $5000 grant will be awarded alongside our Community Grants late March-early April.
Together, we're working to break down barriers for all People of Colour, including Black Nova Scotians, to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness and addiction, and increase help-seeking behaviours. We are listening, learning, sharing and, acting to improve the mental health of Black Nova Scotians.
You can show your support by donating here.