2024 IWES Policy Advisory Fellows (PAF)
Why is it so important/crucial to focus on Black Youth Mental Health, especially in New Orleans/the South?
Awa:
Mental health is a pressing issue in the Black community, but it’s often stigmatized and overlooked, particularly in places like New Orleans and the broader Southern region. The historical and systemic inequalities faced by Black communities in these areas exacerbate mental health challenges, making it harder for youth to access the care they need. In New Orleans, where poverty rates are high, and trauma stemming from racial disparities, generational poverty, and even natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina remains deeply embedded, Black youth face unique mental health struggles. The South also carries a long history of racism, segregation, and underfunded public services, all of which affect the well-being of Black children. The mental health of Black youth is not just an individual concern but a community-wide issue. When youth struggle mentally, it impacts their ability to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. It’s crucial to break the cycles of stigma and silence, providing these young people with the support they need to not only succeed but simply to heal.
What brought you into this project and what is your major takeaway from the Fellowship?
Awa:
Growing up with a brother who suffers from emotional, behavioral, and educational disorders, I witnessed firsthand the challenges of feeling “othered” by those who are supposed to be your support system. This personal experience drove my passion to work with kids, especially those struggling with mental health issues, because I saw the deep effects of feeling isolated and I knew I never wanted anyone to go through that alone. When I joined this project, I didn’t have many expectations beyond a desire to be in a space where mental health, particularly in Black communities, was truly understood and valued. My biggest takeaway has been the overwhelming sense of community and shared purpose among my peers. The cohort of people I’ve worked with has profoundly impacted me—they’ve not only broadened my knowledge but also inspired me with their dedication and incredible work both inside and outside of their schools. This fellowship has shown me the importance of surrounding myself with like-minded individuals who are actively working to create change. It has also motivated me to continue advocating for better mental health resources in our communities and solidified my commitment to this cause, shaping the way I approach both my academic and professional future.
What is your vision of a world where Black youth have all of the mental health supports they need? What would it take to get there and what is your hope for the future?
Awa:
In my vision of a world where Black youth have all the mental health support they need, schools would be filled with trained mental health professionals, ensuring that students have constant access to psychological support. Particularly in cities like New Orleans, where school funding is based on property taxes, we see underserved students being left behind. This disparity in resources directly affects their ability to receive mental health support. To create this world, we need more equitable funding in education, increased mental health services, and most importantly, a shift in how mental health is perceived in our communities. We need to normalize the idea that it’s okay to seek help, that it’s okay not to be okay. By creating safe spaces for open conversations about mental health and by advocating for policy changes that prioritize youth mental health, we can start building a more supportive future. My hope is that one day, no Black child will feel isolated, stigmatized, or ignored when it comes to their mental well-being.
What do you see as the societal benefit of viewing art as medicine?
Awa:
Art is a form of healing and self-expression that allows individuals to communicate emotions and experiences that we often may not be able to express through words. For me, dance was my medicine. In high school, particularly as a Black student in a predominantly white institution, I often felt out of place. Dance became my outlet, my refuge. It allowed me to express myself freely in a way that nothing else could. Many underestimate the power of art, especially in comparison to “traditional” subjects like science or math. But for so many young people, art is a lifeline. It’s a way to cope with stress, trauma, and the pressures of everyday life. When we invest in art programs, we are investing in the mental and emotional health of our youth. Without dance, I’m not sure I would have made it through high school. It was the space where I felt most myself. Just as medicine heals the body, art heals the soul. By viewing art as a form of medicine, we can recognize its role in helping people, especially youth, navigate their mental health challenges. We must prioritize these creative outlets in schools, particularly in underfunded areas where they are often cut first.
What policy or systems changes would you recommend for K-12 school to support BYMH? What is lacking now, or what equity gaps need to be addressed to improve Black youth mental health?
Awa:
A policy change I would strongly recommend for K-12 schools is the expansion of mental health services within the school system. Schools must prioritize hiring more school psychologists, counselors, social workers, and just overall mental health professionals who are trained to address the unique mental health needs of Black youth. Too often, schools in underserved communities lack adequate mental health professionals, leaving students without access to the critical support they need. Additionally, there should be mandatory mental health training for all educators to help them identify and address early signs of mental health issues in students. Equity gaps have also arisen from the disproportionate funding between schools in wealthier areas versus lower-income communities. To improve Black youth mental health, we need a more equitable distribution of resources that ensures all students regardless of their zip code have access to the mental health services they need but also rightfully deserve. Finally, we must work to reduce the stigma around mental health in schools through awareness campaigns and school-wide initiatives that create a culture where students feel safe seeking help. By addressing these systemic gaps, we can begin to make meaningful progress in supporting Black youth mental health.