Mental health challenges are rising across the United States, yet the experiences of American Muslims are often overlooked in conversations about wellbeing and access to care. Join the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) on July 29 at 12:30 PM ET for a discussion of findings from ISPU’s latest report, “Distress and Disconnection: Muslims Report Worse Mental Health and Barriers to Treatment,” based on data from the American Muslim Poll 2025. Panelists will explore the state of mental health among American Muslims, including the impacts of discrimination, social and economic stressors, stigma, and barriers to culturally responsive care.

The report highlights significant disparities, particularly among Muslim women and young adults, while also identifying opportunities to strengthen community-based support, reduce stigma, and expand access to culturally responsive mental health services. Panelists will discuss how community leaders, healthcare systems, mental health professionals, educators, and advocates can work together to reduce stigma and improve access to services. This conversation will be especially valuable for mental health professionals, faith and community leaders, educators, researchers, policymakers, students, and anyone interested in advancing mental wellbeing and equity within American Muslim communities.

Panelists include:

– Maya Mortada, Board Chair, Zaman Community Health Center, Board President, Free & Charitable Clinics of Michigan
– Dr. Samia Hussein, Director of the Office of Multicultural Health Equity at the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services
– Amna Naqvi, Director of Programs, Naseeha Mental Health
– Dr. Latifat Cabirou, Assistant Professor, Auburn University, Dept of Special Education, Rehabilitation, and Counseling (SERC), Licensed Clinical Psychologist

If this event has passed, find a recording of it on our YouTube page here.