In recent years, the alarming rise in suicide rates among Black children and adolescents in the United States has raised concerns nationwide. Particularly concerning is the significant increase in suicides among Black boys aged 15-17. Communities have taken the initiative to develop preventative interventions to address this urgent issue. One such intervention is The Confess Project, which trains Black male barbers to identify signs of psychiatric distress in their clients, foster open dialogue, and refer individuals in need of advanced care to trusted providers. This community-led effort highlights the potential of utilizing existing networks and community stylists as frontline workers in combating the critical problem of suicide.
The Power of Barbershops and Salons
Barbershops and salons play a vital role not only in hair care but also in fostering a sense of community and connection. Research conducted by UNC-Chapel Hill has shown that these venues can serve as powerful platforms for health promotion and intervention. A systematic review of studies conducted between 1990 and 2013 found that over 73.3% of studies conducted in barbershops and salons found significant effects. These studies covered a wide range of health topics, including cancer, diabetes, health decision-making, and STD/HIV prevention and education. The findings underscore the potential of these community spaces in promoting health and well-being (Linnan, 2014).
Empowering Community Stylists
In the United States, there are many barriers to mental health care provision. One such barrier is the high cost of higher education, which contributes to the shortage of qualified mental health professionals, particularly in marginalized communities. However, stylists in barbershops and salons are already providing some forms of essential care, albeit without the formal training or tools to escalate care or feel empowered to take the next steps. By harnessing their existing roles as trusted community members, stylists can become valuable screeners for mental health concerns. Their knowledge of the local context and their ability to build relationships can enhance the effectiveness of interventions.
The Challenge of Sustainability and Scale
While previous studies have demonstrated the benefits of interventions in barbershops and salons, sustaining and scaling these initiatives remains a challenge. Without adequate resources and support, the benefits derived from these interventions may dissipate, leading to scattered and ineffective care. Therefore, any attempts to network or scale such initiatives must consider the economic impact on stylists, ensuring that the introduction of mental health care services does not add undue stress or disengagement from their primary roles as business owners.
Building a Supportive Network
To create a sustainable and impactful mental health care model within barbershops and salons, it is essential to establish a supportive network that addresses the economic and resource-related challenges they face. Partnering with health insurers, community organizations, and mental health providers can help secure capital and resources to ensure the long-term viability of these interventions. By investing in training programs, creating referral systems, and providing ongoing support, we can empower community stylists to serve as effective mental health allies within their neighborhoods.
Barbershops and salons have the potential to go beyond their traditional roles and become critical allies in promoting mental health and well-being within communities. By leveraging the existing trust and rapport between stylists and their clients, we can create meaningful connections and offer early intervention for mental health concerns. However, sustainability and scale are crucial factors that must be considered. Through collaborative efforts and support from various stakeholders, we can create a sustainable model that ensures long-term economic resources for stylists and maximizes the positive impact on mental health care in underserved communities.
References:
https://www.aamc.org/news/tragedy-black-youth-suicide
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/director/messages/2020/addressing-the-crisis-of-black-youth-suicide
Linnan LA, D'Angelo H, Harrington CB. A literature synthesis of health promotion research in salons and barbershops. Am J Prev Med. 2014 Jul;47(1):77-85. doi: 10.1016/j.amepre.2014.02.007. Epub 2014 Apr 24. PMID: 24768037; PMCID: PMC4517428.