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The Cost of Ending Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): What we Need to Know About Mental Health Care

6 days ago

 By: Niti Vora, MA

I want to talk about the executive order 14151, titled "Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing.” Termination of DEI policies impact the mental health community and access to mental health care. The mental health field has long been shaped by a growing recognition that people of different backgrounds—whether in terms of race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status—experience mental health challenges in unique ways. DEI initiatives have been essential for making mental health services more accessible, culturally sensitive, and tailored to the needs of these diverse populations. Marginalized communities often deal with trauma related to racial discrimination, but without culturally competent care, mental health providers might struggle to understand the context of these experiences. Similarly, LGBTQ+ individuals may need specialized care to navigate gender dysphoria, internalized stigma, or familial rejection—issues that require DEI training to address appropriately.


For years, DEI programs have worked to create a mental health landscape that doesn’t just serve "the average patient," but instead takes into account the many complexities that individuals from underrepresented communities bring with them. Think of it like a tailor crafting a suit—services are custom-fit for people based on their identity, culture, and personal history. Without DEI programs, mental health providers could be forced to return to a one-size-fits-all approach that neglects the cultural and psychological nuances that so many people bring with them into therapy.


The financial side of the equation is just as concerning. Federal funding has been a cornerstone for many mental health programs that focus on underserved communities. These programs often rely on DEI initiatives to justify their funding, ensuring that they can continue to provide specialized services. With the federal government now potentially withdrawing or redirecting this funding, many programs face the risk of closure or downsizing. This is particularly dangerous in communities that are already struggling to meet the mental health demands of their populations. For example, outpatient clinics and residential treatment programs designed to address conditions like depression, PTSD, and anxiety, which disproportionately affect marginalized groups, may see their budgets slashed. The result? Fewer resources, fewer trained professionals, and less access to the services that so many people rely on.


For mental health professionals, particularly those working in multicultural and diverse settings, DEI training has been an essential part of developing cultural competence. DEI initiatives help therapists and counselors understand how identity, culture, and social factors play into mental health treatment. Without this kind of training, therapists may not be prepared to handle the nuances of trauma, discrimination, and the specific challenges faced by patients from marginalized backgrounds.


What can we d to take care of ourselves during this stressful time:


1.  Coping Strategies for Navigating This Difficult Time

  • Stay Informed, But Set Boundaries – Keep up with policy changes, but limit news intake if it becomes overwhelming.

  • Engage in Advocacy – Support organizations working to reverse harmful policies by signing petitions, donating, or calling representatives.

  • Seek Support Groups – Join online or in-person groups that focus on resilience and mental health within marginalized communities.

  • Practice Self-Care – Engage in mindfulness, journaling, meditation, or creative outlets to manage stress.

  • Reach Out for Professional Support – Finding a culturally competent therapist or counselor can be crucial in navigating this time.


2. Mental Health Support and Culturally Competent Therapy

3. Community-Based Organizations Advocating Against Executive Order 14151


Even in the face of harmful policies, there is strength in community, advocacy, and self-care. If you are struggling, know that there are people and organizations ready to support you.



References

Associated Press. (2025, February 20). Trump order ending federal DEI programs leaves agencies and stakeholders on uncertain ground. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/f67ea86032986084dd71c5aa0c6b8d1d 


Axios. (2025, February 19). Hospitals face DEI squeeze. Axios Vitals. https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-vitals-7f8b1180-e8c0-11ef-bb0d-674e09d045bc 


Healthcare Brew. (2025, February 27). How DEI rollbacks are affecting healthcare. Healthcare Brew. https://www.healthcare-brew.com/stories/2025/02/27/how-dei-rollbacks-are-affecting-healthcare 


Talkspace Business. (2025). DEI and mental health: Why diversity in mental health care matters. Talkspace Business. https://business.talkspace.com/articles/dei-and-mental-health 


The White House. (2025, January 20). Executive Order 14151: Ending radical and wasteful government DEI programs and preferencing. The White House. https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-radical-and-wasteful-government-dei-programs-and-preferencing/ 


Time. (2025, February 15). How Trump’s attacks on DEI are hurting communities that voted for him. Time. https://time.com/7261440/trump-dei-environmental-justice/ 




 
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