What I’ve noticed recently is more conversations surrounding mental health. While mental healthcare is becoming a more visible part of many people’s wellness routines, there’s still some work that needs to be done — especially for Black Americans and more specifically, Black men. For Black men who decide to participate in medical research, it’s critical that they have the tools to support their mental well-being before, during, and after clinical trial participation.
Data from the National Health Interview Survey reported that only 26.4 percent of Black and Hispanic men ages 18 to 44 who experienced daily anxiety and depression used mental health services compared to 45.4 percent of non-Hispanic white men experiencing the same feelings. While the data is stark, it’s clear that there’s a gap in Black American men taking ownership of their mental health.
As the numbers show, many Black men are not seeking the treatment they need when experiencing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. For years, many have been conditioned to suppress their emotions or believe things will eventually get better on their own. But over time, it’s become clear that many Black men are silently struggling and need support.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) reported that prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Black men in the United States. With Black men experiencing the highest rates of the disease, prioritizing mental healthcare throughout treatment and recovery could make a huge difference in treatment outcomes.
Gilpen Gray, an 80-year-old Texas man, was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer in 2021. Since then, he has participated in a clinical trial and says having a strong support system helped him emotionally throughout the process.
During his treatment, he shared that the clinic where he was receiving treatment offered him support, but he also credits his supportive wife, family, and friends. “I have a wife of fifty-eight and a half years, and I have a very strong, supportive family and friends,” Gray said. Gray is also active in his community and teaches Bible classes at church and in senior homes, where residents are aware of his diagnosis and pray for and support him as well.
Gray added that many Black men may struggle to ask for support during difficult moments because they feel pressure to appear strong. “Some folks would probably be embarrassed because you’re supposed to be a ‘big strong man’ who can handle anything,” he says. “You have to get rid of that idea.”
The conversation around clinical trial participation is not often discussed within the Black community. The reality is that participating in a clinical trial can take a lot out of someone mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially, which is why having a mental health professional to work with you throughout the process can be helpful.
Clinical trials can create stress, burnout, anxiety, and emotional distress, especially while someone is also trying to manage everyday responsibilities and uncertainty surrounding their health.
RELATED: 5 Questions with Dr. Keven Stonewall on Black Men and Clinical Trials
When it comes to seeking support, Tanyel S. Williams, LMSW, ACSW, CHW, ACHP-SW, OSW-C of Texas Oncology, said that many Black men are often prideful and may be hesitant to ask for help. She notes that faith can also play a major role in how some Black men approach clinical trials and healthcare decisions.
“Depending on their religion, their faith will also play a big role in their decision-making about trials versus ‘letting God work it out for them,’” Williams explained. “Ultimately, patients make their own decisions, but we support and encourage them to talk with their caregivers and get their input.
When Black men receive mental health treatment, they are given the space to be vulnerable, feel heard, and feel supported. In return, that can lead to more consistent care, healthier coping mechanisms, and improved overall well-being.
Williams shared that patients participating in clinical trials often experience a variety of emotional and mental health challenges. The common emotions include anxiety about outcomes, decision-making stress, depression, fear or burdening loved ones, social isolation, and emotional fatigue.
“Everyone is different, so no two patients will show signs the same way,” Williams explained. “Families just need to be there to provide support and to listen when patients reach out to them.”
RELATED: Prostate Cancer Clinical Trials: What Black Men Need to Know
When it comes to taking ownership of their mental health, Black men may see advantages of working with a licensed mental health professional and their healthcare provider. When support is received, the trial journey becomes manageable. And when healthcare professionals are proactive about mental healthcare, patients may be more inclined to listen and take action.
Williams says healthcare providers and families should not assume silence means someone is coping well emotionally. “Some people just need you to ask them, ‘How are you?’ and the flood gates will open,” she said.
Although every clinical trial experience is different, emotional support, open communication, and trusted relationships can make a major difference in helping Black men navigate the process.
Having a support system in place during this process is crucial. Some men who may not have family or community support may find themselves experiencing depression, fear, or anxiety, which could impact their overall treatment and day-to-day life. Ultimately, Black men’s mental health matters and should be treated as such.
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