PANELISTS:

Dr. J. Lloyd Allen, Asst. Professor, WSU School of Social Work

Dr. Shantalea Johns, Asst, Professor, WSU School of Social Work

Chantell Phillips, WSU Broadcast Journalism Junior

Kenyetta Stephens, CEO, Black Family Development, Inc.

Sandra Turner-Handy, Sr. Policy Advisor, Michigan Environmental Council

James White, Chief, Detroit Police Department

MODERATOR:

Rochelle Chapman, Community Engagement Manager, Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors (CURES)

Discussion Synopsis:  May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Overall, mental health conditions occur in Black and African American (B/AA) people in America at about the same or less frequency than in White Americans. However, the historically Black and African American experience in America has and continues to be characterized by trauma and violence more often than for their White counterparts and impacts the emotional and mental health of both youth and adults (Mental Health America website).  What are the stressors that impact the Black community, especially young people, and how can they be addressed?