Guidance on Community-Based Mental Health Support for Black Youth in Canada

Evidence indicates disparities in mental health outcomes among Black youth compared to other racial and ethnic groups. These disparities may be related to gaps in the quality of mental health services and inadequate culturally safe practices, which hinder the ability to appropriately support the mental health needs of Black youth. This study aimed to develop a guidance document with recommendations for the delivery of mental health services for Black youth in Canada, focusing on community, primary care, and educational settings, informed by a knowledge synthesis and the perspectives of Black youth in Canada. A participatory research approach was used, consisting of five phases: (1) establishment of an advisory committee, (2) a scoping review, (3) development of a draft guidance document, (4) four focus groups involving 18 Black youth participants, and (5) integration of youth perspectives into the final guidance document. The final document included recommendations across four stages of mental health service delivery: Preparation (16 recommendations), Assessment and Diagnosis (22 recommendations), Intervention (23 recommendations), and Evaluation (5 recommendations). Of the 66 recommendations, 11 emerged exclusively from the focus groups and 18 were informed by both the literature review and focus groups. These recommendations provide consistent guidance for more equitable mental healthcare and represent a step toward broader social equity and inclusion in Canada.