WISCONSIN UNITED
for MENTAL HEALTH

Not surprisingly, people who are members of special populations often have unique mental health concerns and needs.

How mental illness is experienced, expressed, and treated often varies according to an individual's age, gender, race, or ethnic background, as well as other cultural phenomena. David Satcher, Ph.D., the former Surgeon General, noted that "... a history of racism, discrimination and economic impoverishment can combine with mistrust and fear to deter minorities from using services and receiving appropriate care."

Learning more about the unique needs of racial, ethnic and gender minorities can help health care providers, policymakers, educators and people with mental illnesses support recovery and reduce discrimination and stigma.