Systemic Oppression in Mental Health

Mental health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, yet not everyone has equal access to nurturing and effective care. Systemic oppression—discrimination and marginalization embedded within social, economic, and legal systems—deeply affects how mental health is perceived, treated, and accessed. Understanding these barriers is critical for both therapists and those seeking support. At Ida Lillie Psychotherapy, we are committed to recognizing and dismantling these obstacles, fostering an environment where every individual feels seen, respected, and empowered.

Historical Roots of Marginalization in Mental Health

The history of mental health care is intertwined with societal biases and prejudices. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, marginalized communities—including Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people with disabilities—were often excluded from compassionate care or subjected to harmful treatments. For example, research has shown that Black individuals were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, compared to their white counterparts, due to racial bias in psychiatric assessment.

These historical biases have had lasting impacts, contributing to mistrust of mental health professionals and institutions among marginalized groups. Stigma, cultural misunderstandings, and systemic barriers have left many feeling unheard or misdiagnosed, perpetuating cycles of trauma and inequity.

Systemic Oppression: What It Looks Like Today

Systemic oppression in mental health is not just a relic of the past. Today, it manifests in a variety of ways, including disparities in access to care, misdiagnosis, and the underrepresentation of diverse voices in the therapeutic profession. Only about 16% of psychologists in the United States identify as people of color, a stark contrast to the growing diversity of the population.

Language barriers, lack of insurance, and cultural stigma continue to create obstacles for many individuals seeking help. For example, Latinx communities face higher rates of mental health stigma and fewer culturally competent services, often leading to lower rates of treatment. Similarly, LGBTQIA+ individuals are at increased risk for mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety, yet frequently encounter discrimination and limited access to affirming care.

Progress and Change Within the Field

Despite these challenges, the mental health field is evolving. There is a growing movement to train therapists in cultural humility and trauma-informed care, ensuring that practitioners are aware of their own biases and equipped to serve diverse communities effectively. Organizations are developing frameworks for anti-oppressive practice, which involve ongoing education, self-reflection, and policy advocacy.

For instance, the National Alliance on Mental Illness highlights the importance of anti-oppression approaches that address power dynamics within the therapeutic relationship and challenge systemic inequities. Additionally, more therapists are engaging in continuing education on issues such as racism, ableism, and gender identity, fostering more inclusive and affirming spaces for healing.

How Therapists Are Responding

Therapists committed to dismantling systemic oppression are taking concrete steps to foster equity and understanding. This includes:

• Creating spaces where clients feel safe to discuss their identities and experiences without fear of judgment.
• Incorporating evidence-based practices that are culturally responsive and tailored to each client’s unique background.
• Collaborating with community organizations to advocate for broader changes in mental health policy and practice.

At Ida Lillie Psychotherapy, our approach centers on empathy, respect, and a commitment to ongoing learning. We believe that healing is most effective when clients’ lived experiences are not only acknowledged but valued.

Advocacy and Empowerment: What You Can Do

While systemic change requires collective action, individuals can also play an important role in advocating for themselves and their communities. Here’s how you can get started:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about the history and impact of systemic oppression in mental health. Resources such as Mental Health America offer valuable information on disparities and advocacy.
• Speak Up: If you encounter bias or discrimination in a mental health setting, know that your voice matters. Providing feedback to therapists and organizations can help shape more inclusive practices.
• Support Policy Change: Advocate for mental health policies that address disparities in access and treatment. Many organizations, including NAMI, offer guidance on how to get involved.
• Build Community: Connect with others who share your commitment to equity and mental health. Community support groups and online forums can be powerful spaces for sharing resources and encouragement.

Looking Forward: Toward Equity in Mental Health

The journey toward dismantling systemic oppression in mental health is ongoing and collective. By recognizing the roots and current realities of marginalization, and by supporting evidence-based, inclusive care, we move closer to a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. At Ida Lillie Psychotherapy, we are dedicated to being part of this change—supporting individuals and communities on the path to healing and empowerment.

If you’re seeking support or want to learn more about our approach, please reach out or explore our services to take the first step toward mental health equity.