The Covid-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on the lives of those that identify as being from a BAME background. However, when we look beyond the physical impact, what is clear is the effect that the pandemic has had on the mental health of our communities. Studies and surveys have shown that existing inequalities in day-to-day affairs have exacerbated the mental health issues being faced by BAME communities throughout the UK. For example, BAME men have been shown to experience a nearly 15% deterioration in their mental health compared to their white British counterparts.

The Dost project spoke with Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust mental health nurse Faye Jessop to discuss the reasons behind some of the inequalities, and what simple steps we can take towards better self care.

“I think sometimes there’s a stigma with people seeking help with mental health,” Faye said. “With the BAME background maybe there’s an image where people have to be strong and can manage any kind of difficulties. That can be a barrier to accessing services.

“Step forward, seek out help. And if you feel you don’t want that help face to face, Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust have lots of resources online, such as Recovery Colleges where you can work through courses to deal with anxiety, depression and low mood. And sometimes that can break down those barriers if you can do those things online.”

Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust Recovery College courses can be accessed through their dedicated website.

If you or a loved one are seeking targeted support with regards to mental health please contact the ‘Dost’ project and we will be happy to talk through the referral process.

Telephone: 01482 215929 (option 2). Lines are open Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm.

Email: dost@heysmilefoundation.org

Scan this QR code with your smartphone to access our referral form: QR Code image