Elise Banks, Miss International 2015 and National Alliance on Mental Illness ambassador, has invested the last 12 months in breaking down the stigmas that are connected to mental health.
Banks is more than a public figure; as a psychotherapist, she sees mental health as an important subject. She is also determined to help people find help despite the labels and stigmas that are related to mental health conditions and their symptoms.
Unfortunately, statistics show that the African-American population is one of the least likely to find treatment for emotional or mental problems. As an African American, Banks sees this statistic as a status quo that must be changed for the good of the entire U.S.
Banks has stated that, even though personal privacy and family boundaries are important, it is also important to seek professional help for serious problems.
“Just like how you take your car to get serviced when its issues are beyond your scope of knowledge, mental health professionals are trained to help individuals and families with mental health issues that are beyond a family’s expertise,” Banks said. “What is truly wonderful about therapy is that the sessions are completely confidential. So whether you go to a private practice or a clinic, you don’t have to worry about anyone finding out your reasoning for seeking the aid of a professional.”
