Julia F. Hastings, M.S.W., Ph.D., Lani V. Jones, M.S.W., Ph.D., and Pamela P. Martin, Ph.D. co-authored a book titled African Americans and Depression: Signs, Awareness, Treatments, and Interventions. The book examines the realities of depression among African Americans, and the various ways in which sufferers and their families address, or don’t address, it. The authors provide guidance for understanding the illness, suggestions on how to heal and recover holistically, and pathways for getting help.
With a primary focus on the psychological, social, and medical needs of African Americans, the authors explore and offer an overview of clinical depression among African Americans, discuss the signs of and cultural myths surrounding depression, outline the mental health help-seeking process for African Americans, and suggest potential barriers and strategies for healing. Further, they discuss community-based interventions and innovations in service programs.