Cultural Competence “refers to the ability to honor and respect the beliefs, languages, interpersonal styles and behaviors of individuals and families receiving services, as well as staff members who are providing such services” (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services). This section provides information about practices that are preventative and growth oriented in nature and require community participation to enact. Such practices promote individual growth and community involvement (The Center for Dignity, Recovery and Empowerment).
PDFs
- SAMHSA, TIP 59: A Treatment Improvement Protocol Improving Cultural Competence
This guide helps professional care providers and administrators understand the role of culture in the delivery of mental health and substance use services.
Websites
National Alliance on Mental Illness
National Alliance on Mental Illness
A person’s beliefs, norms, values and language affect how we perceive and experience mental health conditions. Cultural differences can influence whether or not we seek help, what type of help we seek, what coping styles and supports we have and what treatments might work for us.
Mental Health America – Minority Mental Health
Mental Health America understands that mental health issues may need to be addressed with a unique lens when working with individuals and families with diverse values, beliefs, and sexual orientations, in addition to backgrounds that vary by race, ethnicity, religion, and language.
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