Erasing the Shame: Addressing Cultural Stigma in Black Men Mental Health and Suicide

Suicide rates among Black men are concerning. This capstone project, titled Erasing the Shame: Addressing Cultural Stigma in Black Men Mental Health and Suicide, explores the alarming rates of suicide among Black men in the United States. The systematic literature review (SLR) studies revealed a significant gap in the existing research on suicide prevention strategies for Black men in the United States. The limited research highlights the significant underrepresentation of Black men in suicide studies compared to other demographic groups. Few studies have focused on the intersectionality of Black men or factors that contribute to the disparities in suicide rates.

Studies examined for the conceptual paper explored Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Standpoint Theory as foundational frameworks for understanding and addressing suicide prevention among Black men. CRT challenges the prevailing narratives that minimize the lived experiences of Black men and highlights the widespread effects of systemic racism. Standpoint Theory enhances the voices and viewpoints of Black men—whose experiences with oppression offer insight into mental health issues and coping strategies. The practice application paper presents strategies focusing on mental health advocacy and suicide prevention. It prioritizes creating safe spaces where Black men can express themselves without judgment, have open dialogue about mental health, challenge cultural stigma, and promote healing. Overall, this study advances social work practice that is informed by justice by providing a framework for fair and long-lasting suicide prevention strategies, not limited to workshops, support groups, and connections to professionals who understand the experiences of Black men.