Why Mental Health is Stigmatized in Haitian Communities

It’s 6 AM, and you’re on the cusp of finally falling asleep after days of tossing and turning, or you are just about to walk into work and you take a deep breath to reset before you walk in. Alternatively last week you had to convince yourself to get out of bed, or you struggled to walk into the bathroom to start your daily routine. Regardless of the exact moment, one thing is certain; these deep feelings aren’t to be ignored. It’s your mental health!

Whatever the mental struggle the help is there, and providers are looking to help and change the game. Moving In New Directions Psychiatry- also known as MIND Psychiatry. The practice is an accessible mental health clinic that has worked to revolutionize the approach to Mental health needs. Founded by Valerie Revolus NP, (PMHNP-BC) and Belinda Narine, NP, to give a another look at what mental health care should be. The psychiatric practice is committed to the people and providing care and education in their communities and beyond. We sat with co-founder Valerie to give us more insight into their clinic and advice. We received important details about seeking the best care, and the importance of understanding the community she serves. 

Some people may routinely seek professional help, while others wait till the wave of anxiety. There are those who experience an abundance of stimulation, or a heightened sense of fear. Meanwhile, paranoia may throw others into mania. Occasionally in our community intervention may be delayed. Sometimes we try to understand, why. We all tackle our mental health differently and there is no rule book. Although this, we know what we don’t like it. We combed through some of these issues with Valerie to get her feedback and insight. As she shares the scope of need and where her clinic stands in this revolution with quality mental health care.

The stigma that follows all of these complex feelings delicately. This evokes deep fears in how we seek help for ourselves. As we scroll through our options there are specific things we are looking for. Whether you pray about it, dance, eat, drink, or self-soothing your way through some of life’s challenges. Is it enough? What do we look for in the best care? How can providers be more inviting? Can providers have more options for the skeptics in our community?

Part of the work is around changing the narrative. The other is helping shape the understanding of elements that should go into making your choice. Valerie helped us define all the aspects people should consider when seeking care. With years of expertise in the mental health space, she answers some of the most important questions that set her clinic apart from the rest:

Questions we should consider when finding the best care for ourselves and our family: 

1. Does it align with who you are? Practitioners should align with your needs, you should feel comfortable to freely express your needs without judgment. At MIND Psychiatry Valerie explains that they created a space that best meets the patients where they are. They take into account their beliefs, their culture, and their history when guiding them. As a Christian provider, Valerie takes pride in her ability to offer support to patients who may have reservations about seeking help due to religious beliefs. Patients can benefit from the diverse offerings for them and their families.
2. Where does the practice stand on new research? MIND Psychiatry is dedicated to providing optimal outcomes to their patients, and to do that, they must be progressive. They are evidence-based practices constantly seeking new and innovative ways to work with their patients. As their team continues to grow they have new treatments they are offering patients to serve their diverse needs better.
3. Can this place take care of me holistically? Valerie explained the importance of approaching each patient with a diverse lens. She shared that the quality of care is in understanding that both physical and mental health go hand in hand. An integrated system of care along with progressive approaches can be essential to the ideal quality of care. MIND Psychiatry is dedicated to serving its people holistically. She understands that each of their patients has layered needs.
4. How does the space make you feel? The importance of an inviting and fresh space is also key to finding an ideal provider. At MIND Psychiatry when you take a look at the brand there is a standard for their presentation. These founders were intentional in creating a space that makes all their patients most comfortable. 

There is a reason why we have mistrust for our medical providers in our community” – Valerie Revolus, NP (PMHNP-BC)

On another note in speaking to Valerie, we were able to highlight some important points within the space:

1. Black and Haitian Community:  “There is a reason why we have mistrust for our medical providers in our community” Valerie explains understanding the hesitation and skepticism of our community in modern-day medicine. History has made it easy for more people to struggle with trusting mental health practitioners. It is important to have practitioners who understand the complex relationship the community may have. There is a stigma in our Haitian community just as there is in the Black community. However, with more education, founders like Valerie make it possible for people to get what they need. 
2. The Reality of Medication Management: Occasionally patients taking medications to manage mental health can be overwhelming.  Valerie explains how important it is to meet patients where they are at. She doesn’t push for unnecessary overprescribing medications. She further explains how the pushing of medication may leave certain patients as non-compliant. 
3. Education is Key: “At the end of the day, it starts from home.” Being intentional about the content we consume around mental health is important in today’s climate. Valerie left us with the tip to start with reading and educating our loved ones at home first. In shedding light more often on these topics as a community we can begin to normalize the conversations, especially as we may be part of support for a loved one and may feel helpless in trying to help them navigate through mental health illness. 

MIND Psychiatry’s innovative approach, spearheaded by Valerie and Belinda , is making significant strides in transforming mental healthcare, particularly for the Black and Haitian communities. By addressing cultural nuances, prioritizing education, and fostering trust, MIND Psychiatry is not only breaking down barriers but also empowering individuals to embrace mental wellness.

As the clinic continues to expand its reach and impact, it serves as a beacon of hope, especially at a time when people within our community are being targeted in such a negative light. They have demonstrated that culturally sensitive and personalized mental healthcare can truly make a difference. Valerie ended our time by going back to the power and the gifts people have to serve in this community. Although people may continue to struggle with seeking help and honoring their faith, she reflected on how deeply rooted this type of care is. It is all connected and more people need to understand the power of quality care like MIND Psychiatry.