Building a circle of care

With mental health reported to be on the decline, The Centre for Advancing the Interests of Black People (“The Centre”) partners with organizations that provide culturally responsive services.

Mental health issues impact the many diverse communities in the city, but the systemic barriers impact mental health outcomes for different groups. For Black communities in the city, there is a stigma associated with seeking help. Barriers include accessing health care, bias, and under-reaction to pain and distress expressed by Black patients. 

“Mental wellness is being able to cope with daily activities and even the expectation that we can move through difficulties one may experience. Extreme mental, emotional, and spiritual stress can be a sign that one needs to get help and frequently, Black people suffer in silence,” said Zhora Adatia, The Centre’s Education and Advocacy Consultant.

Recognizing the connections between anti-Black racism and mental health, The Centre team addresses the impacts of anti-Black racism by amplifying the work of culturally appropriate services. The team also works to destigmatize mental illness and engage in actions of change.

“Partnering with organizations that bring cultural competency to health will help Black tenants navigate Ontario’s health care system and support their needs,” said Zhora.

What mental health resources are available for tenants?

Mental health workshops

If you would like a Confronting Anti-Black Racism (CABR) workshop in your community, contact your local Community Services Coordinator or email The Centre team at TheCentre.EducationAdvocacy@torontohousing.ca.

Mental health resources

Here is a list of Black mental health resources available for tenants.

• Across Boundaries provides equitable mental health services for racialized communities. 
• Black Health Alliance is a community agency that focuses on health promotion, research, strategy design, and policy to improve the health and wellbeing of the Black community. 
• Black Mental Health Canada advocates for culturally safe, affordable, and accessible mental health care to diverse Black communities in Canada. 
• Black Youth Helpline serves all youth, but it is positioned to promote and provide culturally appropriate resources that meet the needs of Black youth and their families. 
• Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is a Canada-wide organization that promotes mental wellbeing and provides information on where to access local services. 
• Strides Toronto has various programs to help children, youth, and their families understand and overcome personal issues and mental health challenges. Residents can self-refer to access community counselling. 
• TAIBU Community Health Centre provides primary health care, which includes a program focused on mental health and substance care for Black youth in the Greater Toronto Area. 

If you are looking for more community services and supports available to residents across Toronto, including youth and seniors, visit the Community services and supports directory page.