An Expert's Opinion
Dr. Josie Augustin, Ph.D. is a Haitian clinical psychologist based in Florida. She wrote her dissertation on mental health within the Haitian community. Jessica Jefferson, also known as the “Superhero Therapist”, is also based in Florida. Aline Milfort is a doctoral psychology student who holds a bachelors’ degree in psychology and a masters’ degree in human services of child protection. All three Haitian women have worked in their community to advocate mental health, especially in the Haitian community.
HOW IS MENTAL HEALTH VIEWED IN THE HAITIAN COMMUNITY?
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"Unfortunately, for many, mental health has a bad name and is seen as taboo or demonic. But, positively, more Haitian millennials are having more conversations about mental health privately and publicly. Similarly, there is a rise in Haitian mental health therapists and psychologists, and I couldn’t be happier. "
Aline Milfort
WHERE DO THESE ATTITUDES COME FROM?
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WHAT ARE SOME FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE MENTAL HEALTH OF HAITIAN-AMERICAN YOUTH?
"Factors that may influence mental health issues are exposure to trauma that is not talked about such as sexual abuse or other forms of abuse. The lack of safe space for the 2nd generation to express their emotions in their home. Furthermore, the inability to handle the stress that comes with acculturation."
Aline Milfort
THE EFFECT ON HAITIAN-AMERICAN YOUTHS?
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DO YOU HAVE MANY HAITIAN PATIENTS?
"My primary clients are K-12th students, therefore, a lot of my sessions occur in the schools. Over the course of my schooling so far, I do not have any Haitian clients for therapy. But, a couple of my clients that I assessed for a learning disability or consulted with parents were Haitian, and I enjoyed it. Having the ability to speak Haitian-Creole and assist families with appropriate resources was very fulfilling. Consequently, I am not entirely sure why I do not have a lot of Haitian clients, factors such as the demographics of the schools can play a role. But, in the future, I hope to have more Haitian clients."
Aline Milfort
ARE HAITIANS MORE RECEPTIVE NOW TOWARDS MENTAL COMPARED TO THE PAST?
"Yes, I believe the younger Haitian generation is more receptive. More conversations are occurring publicly such as on social media, additionally, more Haitians are entering the profession."
Aline Milfort
WHAT ROLE DOES RELIGION PLAY?
"In the Haitian community, I believe religion plays a role in regard to mental health because many indicate that it can be prayed away without mental health services. In addition, seeking help from others is viewed as a weakness or a disappointment to God."
Aline Milfort
Why is recognizing and talking about mental health important for our community?
"Recognizing and talking about mental health in our community is important because it brings awareness, normalization, and a message that you do not have to suffer in silence. In addition, it can help save a life."
Aline Milfort