The book "Purposeful Living - Beginner's Path to Recovery and Meaningful Life" targets at least 2.1 million Sub-Saharan Africans living in the United States (U.S.). A study published in the Journal of Immigrant and Mental Health highlighted that individuals from sub-Saharan Africa often encounter cultural barriers that impact their willingness to seek and access mental health services, with socio-economic factors also playing a role. Limited access to healthcare, language barriers, and financial constraints contribute to disparities in mental health outcomes among this population.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) has shown that individuals with lower income and education levels are more likely to experience mental health challenges. Research suggests that efforts to address mental health disparities within communities of people from sub-Saharan Africa in the U.S. should involve culturally competent approaches, community engagement, and increased access to mental health services. Experts believe that collaborative initiatives between mental health professionals, community organizations, and policymakers can contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals from sub-Saharan African backgrounds.
This book employs the qualitative research method, using a five-pronged theoretical framework (biological, psychological, sociological, atheistic, and biblical) with the Bible as the base for intersectional analysis. The theoretical framework is then linked to the everyday life of the audience, providing guidance to purposeful living - finding meaning in life to prevent or reduce incidences of mental health, and in the case where a mental health disease or high-risk audience safety is identified, professional help is recommended.
Importantly, This book utilizes a culturally sensitive approach to the discussion of mental health and builds on the audience's bond with compatriots from their community - the authors, community leaders, and influencers - to reinforce trust and reliance.
Additionally, for the broader audience, "Purposeful Living - Beginner's Path to Recovery and Meaningful Life" couldn't have been written at a more ideal time than now, especially since we are faced with a global period of uncertainty amid a polarized political environment, the existential threat of global warming, national and global economic instabilities, and evolving technologies including artificial intelligence (AI).
We live in a very stressful world, and maintaining one's mental health requires a conscious daily decision. To facilitate the process of prevention, coping, and healing, this post-pandemic publication is carefully thought through and is intended to address purposeful living amid dire social concerns over some of humanity's common challenges: stress, depression, substance use disorder, opioid use disorder, death by overdose, marriage and divorce, and death by suicide.