He’s afraid that if anyone truly sees him, they’ll look at him funny for simply being who he is.

The elephant is living with body dysmorphia, anxiety, and unresolved trauma. But these aren’t just animal problems. These are deeply human ones.

The truth is: the elephant deserves help. Seeking help doesn’t make him less of an elephant. It makes him brave.

Like the elephant, many people of color are facing similar mental health challenges, but they’re often unable to receive the care they need. The obstacles they face are heavy:

• Fear of being stigmatized or seen as weak

• Mistrust of the mental health system due to past injustices

• Financial barriers and lack of access to care

• Underrepresentation in mental health professions

These keep them from even getting their foot in the door. And when pain goes untreated, it spills out into their environment, affecting families, relationships, and entire communities.

Resources that are making a difference:

• The Loveland Foundation – Therapy for Black women and girls

• Therapy for Black Men – Connecting Black men to culturally competent therapists

• Inclusive Therapists – Culturally responsive, neurodiversity-affirming care

Although the elephant may feel ashamed for needing help, seeking support is vital. If he continues to carry it alone, it could destroy his environment and lead to lasting harm for himself and others.

This metaphor is deeply relevant in social work. As future professionals, we may encounter POC clients or families who hesitate to seek therapy. It’s not always about unwillingness , it’s about survival, safety, and systemic trauma. Understanding these barriers is the first step toward helping them move forward.

Mr. Elephant needs to know: You’re not too much. You’re not too big. You’re just hurting, and that’s okay. Help is not weakness. It’s healing.