In 2019, 1 in 26 California adults had a serious mental illness (SMI), a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder resulting in functional impairment that interferes with or limits major life activities. [1] Recognizing the urgent need for effective and inclusive care, California has recently made significant investments to expand access to mental health services for people with SMI. However, despite these efforts, much remains to be done to ensure that the treatment provided is not only accessible but also high-quality, culturally relevant, and responsive to the diverse needs of California’s population.
This report focuses on advancing racial equity within California’s mental health system, particularly in improving access to and quality of care for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities affected by SMI. These communities often face compounded challenges in accessing mental health care, including disparities in treatment access, stigma, and structural inequities. Addressing these issues is essential to creating a more equitable and effective mental health system that meets the needs of all Californians.