Identity
Yolo Akili Robinson is a mental health advocate and the founder of BEAM (Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective). His life's work centres on bridging the gap between mental health care and social justice, with a particular focus on supporting Black and LGBTQ+ communities. Robinson's approach is grounded in the belief that effective mental health care must be culturally competent and accessible to all, addressing the unique challenges faced by marginalised groups.
The Problem
Many mental health care systems in the United States are ill-equipped to serve marginalised and exploited communities. These systems often lack the cultural sensitivity and structural support necessary to effectively address the mental health needs of Black, LGBTQ+, and other marginalised individuals. This results in inadequate care and perpetuates cycles of mental health issues within these communities.
The Solution
Robinson champions a "healing justice" approach, which seeks to integrate mental health care with social justice principles. This involves training community members, such as barbers, preachers and salon workers, to provide basic mental health support and to recognise when professional intervention is necessary. By equipping these everyday community touchpoints with mental health skills, Robinson aims to create a more accessible and supportive mental health network within marginalised communities.
Robinson also stresses the importance of therapists examining their own biases and the systemic structures within which they operate. He believes that therapists must engage in continuous self-reflection and community accountability to provide care that is truly supportive of marginalised individuals.
Overcoming Obstacles
Transforming the mental health care system to better serve marginalised communities involves significant challenges. These include resistance to change within established institutions and the deeply ingrained biases that exist within the mental health profession. Robinson addresses these challenges by promoting cultural competence and advocating for structural changes in how mental health services are delivered.
He encourages therapists to form communities of practice where they can regularly review and improve their approaches to care, ensuring they are inclusive and effective for all clients. By creating a culture of continuous improvement and accountability, Robinson aims to create a mental health care system that is more responsive to the needs of marginalised communities.
Words of Wisdom
"Western culture often tries to create separate spaces around social services, but if we want to create a wellness community, it’s about how my family, friends, and I help cultivate that wellness and mental health," says Robinson. He underscores the importance of integrating mental health care into everyday community interactions and the role of collective responsibility in creating mental health and wellbeing.
Robinson also emphasises the value of existing community tools and practices, such as those found in beauty salons and religious institutions, which provide important support and validation. He advocates for building on these existing resources by introducing additional tools and training to enhance their effectiveness.
Vision for the Future
Robinson envisions a future where mental health care is not only accessible and culturally competent but also deeply intertwined with social justice. He aims to expand BEAM’s reach, providing more training and resources to community members and advocating for systemic changes in mental health care policies and practices.
His goal is to create a mental health care system that recognises and addresses the unique needs of marginalised communities, reducing barriers to access and improving outcomes for all individuals. Robinson believes that by creating a culture of compassion, accountability and continuous improvement, we can create a more just and equitable mental health care system.
Get Involved
Support Yolo Akili Robinson’s mission by engaging with BEAM’s educational resources, advocating for culturally competent mental health care and participating in community-based mental health initiatives. Visit BEAM’s website to learn more about their programs and how you can contribute to their efforts.
