Mental health is an essential part of overall physical health and satisfaction. The Black community suffers from an increased rate of mental health concerns, including anxiety and depression. Yet many are hesitant to seek out therapy. This World Mental Health Day, discover ways in which you can take control of your mental health.
World Mental Health Day is a day intended to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health initiatives.
Immediately when I think of mental health awareness, I can't help but hope that these efforts will help minimize the stigma associated with mental health in black and brown communities. According to the Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, “African Americans are 20 percent more likely to experience serious mental health problems than the general population.” Yet we are less likely than other populations to receive help. I see this all the time in my practice as a holistic health practitioner / energy healer/ empowerment coach. The majority of my clients are Caucasian, but the ones who initiate conversations with me about emotional healing are Black. There is an obvious need to begin the process of emotional exploration, self awareness and healing, but it is overshadowed by the cultural shame associated with therapy. For my grandparents and parents' generation, seeking professional help and guidance was viewed as a sign of weakness, a violation of privacy, and a sign that your faith in God needed to be reevaluated. As a result of these beliefs, we became a generation of women and men poorly equipped with the tools needed to maintain our emotional and mental health. This isn't to say that we will forever be plagued by the effects of our past. Everyday is a new opportunity to begin again and make the necessary shifts in our minds and souls. What is first required of us in order to heal, is to acknowledge that we have endured trauma. Being honest and accepting that truth, immediately puts us on the path of our healing process. The first step is usually the hardest. Quite frankly, even after the first step, it can get hard along the way. There will be times where you feel vulnerable, tired or frustrated. Except it as part of your growth and make every effort to keep going. The amazing thing is that once you heal, you heal the generation behind and the generations to come.
What are things you can do right now to begin your journey?
Self- reflect- Ask yourself the hard questions and record those answers in a journal.
Mediate- When we quiet the mind, we allow your inner wisdom and inner guidance to shine through.
Spent Time in Nature- This is a great opportunity to convene and connect with whatever higher power you believe in.
Here are some resources:
Visit:
Mental Health for All
Download:
Guide: How to Begin & Create a Mindful Practice
Watch:
Full Episode: SPEAK SIS (Mental Health, Childhood Trauma & Healing | Speak Sis | OWN" on YouTube
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