Elevating Black Youth: Dr. Kristee Haggins' Path to Mental Health

During her teenage years, Kristee Haggins faced immense pressures stemming from life, education, and systemic racism, which unfortunately led her to a suicide attempt. Alarmingly, data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration indicates a striking 37% increase in suicide rates among Black youth aged 10-24 from 2018 to 2021.In Sacramento County, suicide has been identified as the third leading cause of death in this age group from 2010 to 2022, with Black youth representing approximately 21% of these incidents. As a survivor, Haggins has dedicated her professional life to tackling mental health issues within the Black community through her organization, Safe Black Space.Her image is prominently displayed on billboards throughout Sacramento, where she advocates for open conversations as a means of healing. With extensive expertise as a psychologist, educator, and advocate, Haggins remains devoted to empowering young Black individuals confronting mental health struggles amidst persistent stigma.