Older, Church-Going African Americans' Attitudes and Expectations About Formal Depression Care. (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wharton, Tracy; Watkins, Daphne C.; Mitchell, Jamie; Kales, Helen
• Is Part Of: Research on aging. Volume 40:Number 1(2018)
• Page Start: 3
• Page End: 26
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: African American -- church -- community based -- mental health -- depression -- older adult; Old age -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- United States -- Periodicals; 305.2605
• DOI: 10.1177/0164027516675666
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0164-0275

Abstract

This phenomenological study involved focus groups with church-affiliated, African American women and men ( N = 50; ages 50 and older) in southeast Michigan to determine their attitudes and expectations around formal mental health care. Data analysis employed a constant comparative approach and yielded themes related to formal mental health care, along with delineating concerns about defining depression, health, and well-being. Health and well-being were defined as inclusive of physical and spiritual aspects of self. Churches have a central role in how formal mental health care is viewed by their attendees, with prayer being an important aspect of this care. Provider expectations included privacy and confidentiality; respect for autonomy and need for information, having providers who discuss treatment options; and issues related to environmental cleanliness, comfort, and accessibility. Implications include providing effective, culturally tailored formal depression care that acknowledges and integrates faith for this group.