Afrocentric Definitions and Conceptions of Mental Health: Insights From A Scoping Review

, particularly across different Afro-diasporas and continental African settings. As a result, this scoping review synthesizes findings from primary research and interventions examining Black mental health. Specifically, it maps the literature to examine the characteristics of Afrocentric definitions, conceptualizations, and outcomes of Black mental health research and interventions. To undertake this review, 84 peer-reviewed empirical articles were examined to understand how Afrocentric perspectives are applied in research and the factors influencing their use. The findings revealed that while Afrocentric principles are employed in mental health research, their applications do not follow a fixed pattern. Instead, the authors adopted and interpreted the principles in different ways. Key themes emerging from the review include holistic well-being, cultural values and beliefs, community and social support, collective well-being, religion and spirituality, and traditional healing. These themes often appeared in combination with other themes. The findings highlight the need for policies that recognize and promote Black mental health as a valuable resource, given its broad application and benefits.