Many Haitian and Burmese residents struggle to access medical care due to a lack of interpretation services, but new funding will help train more Haitians and Burmese residents to become behavioral health professionals in their communities.
Over the next year, a total of 20 Haitian and Burmese community members will become certified Peer Recovery Coaches through a Behavioral Health Cultural Equity Grant, a partnership between the Department of Public Health and Safety, Mental Health America Indiana, and leaders of the Haitian and Burmese communities in Indianapolis.
Both communities experienced political turmoil that resulted in large numbers of Haitians and Burmese migrating to Indianapolis. Approximately 40,000 Burmese people live in Marion County, and the Haitian Times reports that there are approximately 2,500 Haitians living in Indiana.
The journey to the United States can be dangerous, with people having to endure hunger, family separation and other traumatic obstacles. Once resettled, cultural stigma and access can be barriers to mental health treatment, said Naw Paw, president of the Burmese Community of North America.
And there are only a limited number of people who can truly understand what they are going through and communicate with them.
About 70% of social workers and 76% of mental health counselors in the U.S. are white, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The American Psychological Association estimates that in 2021, just 10% of psychologists offered services in a language other than English.
“It’s heartbreaking to see our community facing some challenges,” Pfau said. “And very sadly, we’re seeing a lot of [a number] Many of our community members suffer from mental health issues because they don’t have access to behavioral health services, mental health services, or awareness of how mental health can affect a person.”
Now, mental health advocates hope the pilot program will provide the community with evidence-based, culturally sensitive services in the areas of behavioral health, substance use and recovery support.
Justin Beatty, vice president of education and credentialing for Mental Health America of Indiana, said the opportunity will also help with workforce development.
“We’re looking at ways to really bring the local community in, because let’s be honest, the money disappears after a while,” Beatty says. “What doesn’t disappear is empowering the local community and providing support for them. [and] Honesty and respect are needed.”
The behavioral health training through Mental Health America of Indiana lasts approximately 40 hours over three weeks, with the goal of positioning participants for employment. Clinician-led Community Response Teamsresponding to 911 calls from people experiencing mental health crises, or Assessment and Intervention Center.
“Indianapolis is stronger as a community when all of our residents come together and support one another.” OPHS Director Martin Romy Bernard Tucker said:And when we support each other, everyone’s life is better. To all who live in Indianapolis, whether you’re born Hoosier or adopted Hoosier, regardless of your culture or background, we see you. We welcome you. We are here to support you, physically and emotionally.”
Haitian and Burmese community leaders will host community forums to learn more about their people’s mental health needs. Applications for the training program will open in October.
Contact WFYI health reporter Elizabeth Gabriel at egabriel@wfyi.org.
