Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited chronic disease that impacts millions of persons worldwide; however, in the United States (US), the myth of SCD being a ‘Black disease’ persists. Healthcare disparities, structural racism, misinformation, and adverse social determinants of health complicate care and exacerbates the chronic pain and emotional/psychological stress that many children living with SCD contend with across the lifespan.
Mental health professionals are key members of integrative treatment teams, as well as private/community, yet they may be challenged in treating chronic pain and mental health issues associated with SCD in the complexities of intersectionality. This presentation will provide a brief historical overview of SCD in the US, the socio-cultural-political contexts that may complicate children and their families’ experiences, the manifestation of the disease and implications for mental well-being, and theoretical frameworks that may contribute to effective treatment/intervention.
Objectives:
- Describe the signs, symptoms, and complications of sickle cell disease (SCD) for children and the adverse impact of healthcare disparities in providing optimal care.
- Articulate the complexities of intersectionality when considering chronic pain and mental health risk factors for children living with SCD.
- Utilize a biopsychosocialculturalspiritual (BPSS) model of care and intersectionality framework in conceptualizing treatment and promoting effective healthcare practices.
- Name at least three (3) culturally-informed strategies or approaches that can be integrated in mental health care plans.