Perceived barriers to accessing mental health services among black and minority ethnic (BME) communities: a qualitative study in Southeast England (November 2016)

Summary

In most developed countries, substantial disparities exist in access to mental health services for black and minority ethnic (BME) populations. This study sought to determine perceived barriers to accessing mental health services among people from these backgrounds to inform the development of effective and culturally acceptable services to improve equity in healthcare.

It found that people from BME backgrounds require considerable mental health literacy and practical support to raise awareness of mental health conditions and combat stigma. There is a need for improving information about services and access pathways. Healthcare providers need relevant training and support in developing effective communication strategies to deliver individually tailored and culturally sensitive care. Improved engagement with people from BME backgrounds in the development and delivery of culturally appropriate mental health services could facilitate better understanding of mental health conditions and improve access.