For this dissertation two studies were conducted to examine connections between mental illness knowledge, spiritual coping measures, help seeking, and the role of the Black church. Further the relationship between racial pride, stigma, and attitudes toward Black media figures and characters who have mental illness was investigated. Manuscript One Abstract Introduction: The first manuscript is entitled Mental Illness Knowledge, Stigma and Help Seeking Behaviors: The Role of Spirituality and The African American Church, and answers two research questions. These are: a) What relationship exists between mental illness knowledge, perceived stigma, spirituality, and reported help seeking behaviors? b) Are there demographical differences between African Americans who are supportive of the Black church playing a role in addressing mental illness versus those who are not? c) What role should the African-American church play in addressing mental illness? Method: To answer the research questions, a convenience sample of 409 African American church going participants was recruited to complete an anonymous survey. Results: Mental illness knowledge correlated with several items, such as help seeking, stigma and the role of the church. In this study, most participants stated they would receive mental health services if justified. Participants who had high levels of knowledge had lower stigma levels. The majority of participants stated that they would participate in help seeking programs if the church provided those opportunities. Most of the participants were very spiritual and attended a faith-based service weekly. Manuscript Two Abstract Introduction: The second manuscript is entitled An Empire State of Mind: Racial Pride, Stigma and Perceptions of Black Mental Illness in the Media, and answers 3 specific research questions. These are: a) What relationship exists between Racial Pride, Stigma and Perceptions of Black mental illness portrayal in the media? b) Do African Americans think that the media plays a role in addressing mental illness stigma in the Black culture? c) What attitudes and perceptions exist about media portrayal of African Americans who have mental illness? Method: A convenience sample of 409 African Americans (same sample for study 1) who were members of a Black church was recruited to respond to an anonymous survey. Results: Participants were generally aware of Black mental illness among figures in the media and in television shows. Participants felt that portrayals in the media influence how the Black community perceives mental illness in their community and are aware of stigma toward it. Participants had high levels of racial pride and a moderate level of stigma against mental illness. However, they saw a need for continued discussion of mental illness in the media to decrease stigma. Participants with high levels of racial pride were more likely to be aware of Black media figures and characters with mental illness, feel that mental illness in Blacks should be discussed in the media and see the media as having a role in reducing said stigma. Participants with higher stigma about mental illness were less likely to perceive mental illness stigma in the media.