Help Seeking and Receiving in Urban Ethnic Neighborhoods

Abstract

This paper presents findings from a National Institute of Mental Health funded research and demonstration effort aimed at addressing impediments to seeking and receiving help in two white ethnic communities. A community mental health empowerment model was developed and implemented in the target communities over a four year period. This model succeeded in building upon the strengths of individuals and neighborhoods to help overcome help seeking and receiving obstacles. Mechanisms were developed through a variety of means to enhance the ability of lay and professional helpers to interact and work with each other.