July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Racial and ethnic minorities in the U.S. face unique challenges when it comes to mental illness. Obstacles for many include a lack of health insurance, less access to treatment, and stigma. In the U.S. Black, Hispanic, and American Indian/Alaska Native people also experience a high burden of asthma. Black people in the U.S. bear a much higher burden of food allergies than white people. The burden is often greater because of food insecurity. Living with a long-term disease like asthma, eczema, and food allergy can lead to increased stress, worry, anxiety, depression, and feelings of loneliness. AAFA is here to help patients and caregivers. Our online communities provide emotional support. We also have a free helpline and ask the allergist service. Find our support services at: aafa.org/help Mental health care needs to be integrated into asthma, allergy, and eczema health care. These conditions impose a large psychosocial burden including emotional, mental, financial, and social impact on patients and their families/caregivers. Mental health screening and support is needed as part of asthma and allergy management. AAFA has free resources for patients and caregivers that help reduce the stress of managing these diseases. #MentalHealthy #PublicHealth #HealthEquity #Asthma #FoodAllergies #Eczema
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