Lessons Learned from AMEN: African American Faith-Based Mental Health and Wellness Program

Area of Science:

• Community-based participatory research
• Health equity
• Mental health promotion

Background:

• COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated health disparities for African Americans (AAs).
• Existing inequities necessitate targeted interventions for AA communities.

Purpose of the Study:

• Establish collaborative partnerships between community and academic entities.
• Enhance mental health outcomes in AA communities through a holistic wellness program.
• Implement and evaluate a program within AA churches.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a mixed-methods approach for process evaluation.
• Employed a multilevel community-based participatory research (CBPR) strategy.
• Engaged a diverse research team including academics, pastors, lay health workers, and community organizations.

Main Results:

• CBPR effectively engaged community members in wellness activities.
• Empowered faith leaders to integrate mental health into church activities.
• Demonstrated successful community and academic collaboration.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative partnerships are crucial for sustainable mental health initiatives.
• Engaging faith leaders and community organizations builds capacity within AA communities.
• Holistic wellness programs can effectively address mental health disparities.