July is BIPOC Mental Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the unique needs and experiences of BIPOC communities – Black, Indigenous and People of Color – related to mental health. Whether you identify as a member of these communities or want to be a stronger ally, you’re encouraged to take part in sharing information, resources and support.

Learn and raise awareness

• Watch the Strength Over Silence docuseries. Mental health champions share their candid and courageous stories of lived experience, emphasizing the importance of culture and identity in the mental health movement.
• Throughout July, visit the NAMI Blog for personal stories about how culture impacts mental health.
• Learn about mental health disparities among diverse populations and how racism can affect mental health.

Campus support

• Call 888-881-LINC (5462) for free, confidential support 24/7 through the university’s employee assistance program, SupportLinc. Professionally licensed care advocates receive ongoing cultural competency training and use a concierge approach for referrals to ensure that providers meet your clinical and cultural preferences. Visit iu.mysupportportal.com to access additional services and resources including text therapy and digital group support.
• Contact the Office for the Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Multicultural Affairs for advocacy, support and resources for minority and underrepresented students, faculty and staff.
• Attend a webinar to learn how to get help for someone who may be thinking about suicide: Suicide Awareness – Know the Behaviors, Help Save a Life.
• Visit the University Graduate School’s trauma resources site.

National support

• Learn how identity and culture can influence perceptions of mental health conditions, and how to find culturally competent care.
• Find mental health resources and suicide prevention resources focused on supporting BIPOC communities.
• Take an online screening test to see if you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.
• Call 800-273-TALK (8255) to reach the Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Starting July 16, the Lifeline can be reached by dialing 988 from anywhere in the U.S.

Learn more about BIPOC Mental Health Month and ways you can show support through Mental Health America.