Untangling Trauma: Exploring the Impact of Misdiagnosis in Black Men's Mental Health

Mental illness is a significant public health concern and, regrettably, prevalent in America. Current estimates indicate that more than one in five adults in the U.S. grapple with a mental illness, with less than half having availed themselves of treatment services in the past year. Notably, only one in three African Americans with a mental illness seek treatment, and this statistic is even lower among Black males. Hence, accurate diagnosis enables patients to access appropriate treatment, while a misdiagnosis can expose individuals to stigma, discrimination, and no treatment at all. The authors have developed a conceptual model that examines the research illuminating the implications of misdiagnosing trauma responses, focusing on the mental health of Black men. The misinterpretation of trauma responses not only perpetuates systemic biases but also impedes the delivery of suitable treatment, perpetuates negative narratives, and deepens the mistrust between the healthcare system and the Black community. The author's conceptual framework considers historical trauma, discrimination, and traumatic stress reactions, which can manifest in various forms that may result in misdiagnosis unless approached with cultural competence and humility. This approach involves considering traumatic experiences, the meaning attributed to the trauma, and sociocultural disparities. The conceptual framework is the foundation for reviewing research evidence, the need for competent trauma assessments and interventions, community empowerment, advocacy efforts, and suggestions for future research directions. The authors will highlight the critical importance of understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by Black men within the broader context of mental health diagnosis and treatment.