Inside the pandemic: Two mental health workers and community volunteers discuss how cultural experiences and racial trauma affect mental health in BIPOC communities

May 28, 2021.Reading time 12 minutes.

There is a lack of diversity among behavioral health professionals and a need to create more opportunities for BIPOC people in this field. Research has shown that understanding a person’s cultural connection is an important part of the counseling process.

“No Health Without Mental Health” – Resources to Support Mental Health & Well-Being in Our Community

May 25, 2021.Reading time 4 minutes.

Illustration of a woman with flowing brown hair. There are illustrated flowers and leaves of different colors coming out of her head and a hand holding a watering can is watering them. The background is a light blue with cloud-like shapes

If your mental health has taken a hit recently, you aren’t alone. The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound impacts on mental health and emotional well-being.

Racism is a Public Health Crisis: Community Engagement

April 28, 2021.Reading time 11 minutes.

Inequity and injustice impact us all. Since declaring Racism is a Public Health Crisis (RPHC), King County Government and Public Health – Seattle & King County (PHSKC) have committed to developing stronger and better resourced partnerships with community organizations and leaders to disrupt and dismantle racism and protect the health and well-being of our all our residents, regardless of race or location.

STOP ASIAN HATE

March 17, 2021.Reading time 8 minutes.

We’re in solidarity with our diverse Asian neighbors in King County in the midst of a growing rise in anti-Asian hate crimes. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, anti-Asian racism and xenophobia have shaken and traumatized our communities. We denounce racism, colorism, and any actions taken to harm someone because of their race or place of origin.

Stories of Resiliency & Strength from Communities of Color

February 24, 2021.Reading time 5 minutes.

We must celebrate the beauty and fullness in all that Black children and youth are. Out in the world Black children and youths’ stories are living, breathing, and thriving narratives that demand more of us. They ask: do you see my humanity and are you willing to understand my full story? Today, we are grateful to share a poem by Nikai Mackie, who originally shared her piece with our community partner, Young-Women Empowered (Y-WE), in June 2020. We hope you intentionally sit and reckon with Nikai’s words.

FAMILY GUIDE TO NAVIGATING THE JUVENILE LEGAL SYSTEM

February 19, 2021.Reading time 3 minutes.

The Juvenile Legal System Family Handbook focuses on helping family and guardians of impacted youth understand and navigate the King County Juvenile Legal System. It also provides links to additional resources and helpful information for community service providers working to support youth and families.

PUBLIC HEALTH INSIDER