Does One Size Fit All with the Black Church?: Differences by Gender in Perceptions of Faith-Based Mental Health Services in the United States

J Relig Health. 2026 Jun 12. doi: 10.1007/s10943-026-02699-y. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Mental health disparities among Black adults remain a critical public health issue; however, few studies have examined gender differences in perceptions of faith-based mental health hub programs designed to reduce these disparities. Using an exploratory survey design, this study assessed gender differences in perceptions of service utilization, access, engagement, cultural humility, and satisfaction with a faith-based mental health hub programs. This program links, refers, and provides psychoeducation to adults with mental health needs through Community Health Workers. A descriptive analysis and a Mann-Whitney U-test (non-parametric test) were used. All program participants were invited to take part in the study, and we achieved a 65% response rate. Among Black respondents (N = 231), 79% were women, 52.1% were college-educated, and the majority were 46-55 years old (26.4%). Results revealed a statistically significant difference between men and women in access to services only (U = 3831.50, Z = -2.79, p = 0.005, r = 0.18). Women reported significantly higher access to services than men. In general, both groups reported high levels of satisfaction with services, perceived cultural humility, and strong engagement in and utilization of the program, with no significant differences noted. Findings underscore generally positive perceptions among Black adults regarding faith-based mental health hub programs. However, the underrepresentation and lower reported perceptions of men and emerging adults highlight an opportunity to expand outreach efforts. Further, the high proportion of participants with college degrees suggests that educational attainment does not eliminate barriers to care.

PMID:42284005 | DOI:10.1007/s10943-026-02699-y