10 Ways to Support the Mental and Emotional Well-Being of Black Men

Last year I penned a few of my thoughts on the battles Black men are facing mentally and emotionally. As a new year (and semester) begins, I want to dig deeper into how we support our Black men, students, faculty, and staff. It’s no secret that we face unique challenges in the collegiate setting. However, I believe that part of the support and solution comes through engaging in thoughtful, pragmatic conversations about the mental well-being of Black men. I’m not going to dig into all the factors impacting Black male mental health. Instead, I want to lay out specific ways that we can offer support toward their overall well-being. I want us to get down to what many are missing, the how-to of support. Here are ten ways to support the emotional and mental well-being of Black men on college campuses.

1. Provide safe and supportive spaces. Creating a safe, judgment-free space for Black males to express their thoughts and feelings is critical. This could be anything from a weekly gathering at a local park to a safe online forum for them to share and process their emotions. Having a safe place to discuss their experiences and build a support system can be incredibly helpful in fostering mental and emotional well-being.
2. Challenge negative stereotypes and racism. Something as simple as reevaluating the images and language used on campus can challenge negative stereotypes and racism. Black men should see themselves represented positively all over campus. Just as widely as other individuals, the model should include highlights and promotion of positive self-image for Black males.
3. Promote cultural identity, pride, and Black male success. It’s okay to be a Black man. Black men are strong, intelligent, and successful. This fact should not be a threat to others. But instead, it should be promoted to build the positive self-image of Black men. Knowing who they are, having pride in the knowledge, and being hopeful toward success should be encouraged, not diminished.
4. Intentionally focus on mental health throughout the entire college journey. Mental health is not a matter just for freshman-year adjustments or senior-year transitions. It does not begin with one and suddenly stops with another. Instead, mental health should be emphasized throughout the collegiate journey for Black men.
5. Promote positive activities such as sports, music, art, and mentorship programs. Sometimes our young men just need encouragement. Encouraging them to engage in positive activities can help build relationships, strengthen involvements, and explore talents and hobbies.
6. Encourage physical activity and healthy eating habits. It’s no secret that Black men are at higher risk for specific ailments and diseases. Sometimes, the physical symptoms are a result of emotional and mental factors. Whatever the cause, encouraging physical activity and healthy eating habits is an effective way to support the emotional and mental health of Black males. Remind them to move their bodies. Remind them to fuel their bodies with nutrient and vitamin-rich foods.
7. Encourage open dialog and communication. Talking about what’s going on doesn’t always happen willingly. Our young Black men must be reminded of safe spaces and encouraged to express their vulnerabilities. The more we talk, the more things feel like a secret, less lonely, and less detrimental to our well-being.
8. Provide access to the development of positive relationships with Black role models and mentors. I am an advocate for mentorship. Black men need to be mentored by responsible, compassionate other Black men. We know the journey and have likely had similar encounters in our travels. If there are no Black men in leadership on your campus (reevaluate the commitment to DEI, but that’s another discussion), then research partnerships that will make mentorship accessible to the young Black men on your campus.
9. Provide access to mental health services and counseling. Yes, campuses have mental health services and resources available. However, they need to be welcoming spaces for Black men. The unique challenges faced deserve mental health services that align with those needs.
10. Help Black men prepare for life after college. I cannot stress this enough! Being a Black man does not stop with the receipt of a degree. We have to do a better job of preparing our young Black men for life after college. Do they possess financial literacy skills? Are they equipped with career-readiness knowledge? What about their soft skills and conflict resolution abilities? In my opinion, this is one of the most effective ways to support the mental and emotional well-being of Black men. Prepare them for the real world.

Mental and emotional well-being is essential for everyone, but it can be tough for Black men to come by. The challenges of racism, discrimination, poverty, violence, and bias have been a reality for Black men in the United States for generations. These systematic issues and effects can be devastating to Black men’s health. Fortunately, some steps can be taken to support the mental and emotional well-being of Black men. From providing a safe and supportive environment to establishing resources and networks, there are many ways to encourage and promote a healthier emotional state. With the proper support, Black men can live healthier, happier lives.