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This must be the month for me to learn more about mental illnesses. There is an article by Keith Reed in the July issue of Essence, "Heavy Is The Head That Wears The Crown." Also, I watched an episode of HBO's Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, featuring David Feherty, who is a " colorful" golf announcer, who joined CBS Sports full-time this year. David, born in Ireland in 1958, intended on a singing career, but was led to become a professional golf player in 1976. An avid golfer playing mainly on the PGA Tour, he developed bad elbows and, subsequently, became addicted to painkillers. Before he went pro, he already was an alcoholic, challenging people to out-drink him. Over the years, Feherty has also been addicted to cocaine and a variety of pills. Initially diagnosed with schizophrenia, he subsequently was diagnosed as also having bipolar disorder. Knowing these demons will always haunt him, he is able to take one day at a time.
The Essence article highlighted a young male teacher, who had gone through a series of events that was the undoing of his career and family. He thought once he moved, everything would be OK. However, another tragic event occurred which caused him to spiral and collapse. It was only then that he sought professional help.
This is a problem in the black community as a whole, but especially with black men. African-American men are slow to admit the presence of a problem, feeling this to be a sign of weakness. They too fear they will disappoint their families or church, because most communities look upon mental illness as an abomination. This can cause something far worse. For those who suffer without anyone to confide in or find help, they risk a high suicide rate. Gone too soon are Don Cornelius (creator of Soul Train),75, and Lee Thompson Young (actor), 29. Cornelius had been suffering from seizures and in constant pain for 15 years, after having a complicated 21-hour brain operation in 1982. Young was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and had been suffering from depression before his death. African American men usually are very private, keeping to themselves, which is why they have a shorter lifespan than other groups.
When family members, friends, and co-workers begin to notice behavioral changes in a man, it's important to encourage them to seek help. According to the National Institute of Heath, the following tips can be used to assist someone who appears depressed:
Help him find a doctor or mental health provider, make an appointment, and ensure he gets there.
Offer support, understanding, patience, and encouragement.
Talk to him and listen carefully - NEVER ignore comments about suicide and report them to his doctor.
Invite him out for walks and outings. If he says no, keep trying, but don't push him.
Remind him that with time and treatment, the depression will lift.
Help our families. We may need to go to therapy as a family. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. launched an initiative (Brother, You're On My Mind) to encourage its members to seek counseling. This program was implemented shortly before a member was killed by his mentally ill son. Let's help each other to remove the stigma around mental health.