I love the Op-Ed section of the paper. I believe we all need to write at least one letter on something we’re passionate about in our lifetime. In saying that, I applaud this reader

Rural African American communities have been experiencing an ongoing gap in mental health care access due to systemic barriers. Many families live at least 30 miles from the nearest provider and often cannot afford the cost. No one should have to choose between receiving mental health treatment and affording gas money. As a result, it’s a cycle of symptoms worsening due to delayed services, frequently traveling long distances to emergency rooms for care, and deteriorating quality of life.

I grew up in a rural community, Fayette, Mississippi. There was a shortage of culturally competent mental health providers. Today, those same barriers still affect rural African American communities. We have to advocate for policy equity! The Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicaid expansion have improved access to mental health treatment in low-income communities and racial and ethnic groups When states expand Medicaid, people experience better health outcomes, which supports economic stability.

We must take action. Vote for leaders who support equitable access to health care. Call your legislators and ask them to support the ACA and Medicaid expansion. Share your personal experiences to help influence policymakers. Write letters, send emails, and explain why access to mental health care is important. Share facts with your community.

Don’t give up!

Respectfully,
Dewanna Chambliss-Young, MSW, LCSW