Black Mental Health
It is Black History Month, which has prompted me to write a blog about what Black Mental Health means to me. For me, it has been important to keep my understanding of Black people and culture rooted in joy and beauty. To stay rooted, I draw upon my personal experiences where I have witnessed Black people in all of their greatness. I grew up in a predominantly Black neighborhood in East Oakland. When I think of my childhood, I think of a magical time. On this block lived an older couple who we called Mama and Papa Green. The two of them were essentially the grandma and grandpa of the block; I always felt a warmth and protection in their presence. On this block there were a ton of kids and every summer we all played outside from sunrise until the streetlights came on. We had lemonade stands. Yearly, we had block parties where the streets were blocked off- this was my favorite because this is the one time in life where kids can play carefree in the streets. During the block parties, there was Black music playing from the loud speakers, from Al Green and The Temptations to Tupac’s “Keep ya head up” Guy, and TLC. I have memories of Black people playing dominoes. I smile when I think about how Black people stand up and act out a story. The storytelling. Black people and their storytelling are a beautiful thing. I remember adults taking time to speak with us and instill their lessons and wisdom. I think of these times and still remember the sounds of belly aching laughing and joy that existed in this neighborhood.
For me, Black Mental Health means staying rooted in my narrative (and my knowing truth) of who Black people are and what they have meant to the foundation and spirit of this world. And to put it bluntly, the fact that Black people have achieved so much with all of the barriers put in place is a true testament that Black people are made of the good stuff. In therapy, I am always hesitant to call that out because I recognize that it is unfair that Black people are required to be that strong with the world being this unfair. Time and time again, Black people highlight intrinsic strength, brilliance, creativity, innovation, beauty, and spirit.
Due to structural systems in place, Black people remain marginalized in this country and still strive to say “Black Lives Matter” without debate. Therefore, Black people have human experiences but there’s this added layer of what it means to walk while Black, jog while Black, drive while Black, BBQ while Black, get medical treatment while Black, navigating legal system while Black, being a professional while Black, and existing while Black. That over analysis of what it means to have “normal” experiences while Black can be EXHAUSTING.
HOW DO WE CARE FOR OUR MENTAL HEALTH?
FIRST. Create and connect with community where that extra layer of analysis is not needed. Essentially, having a community for yourself where you feel safe to be you in a space to exist as you are.
SECOND. Find ways to stay rooted in Black joy. It is hard to always think about the struggle. Watch and listen to Black entertainment that is not struggle related. I don’t know if you all remember, but it seemed like there was a period in time where there was a slave movie coming out every year- it was getting to be too much. Read books with Black characters and beautiful storylines. Follow positive social media outlets highlighting positive Black images (some of my faves are “blacklove”, “theblackmancan”, “alphablackness”, “sirenitytoday” on Instagram). Earlier, I spoke of my childhood- can you draw upon your own positive experiences?
THIRD. Breathe. You can slowly inhale through your nose until you can’t anymore, hold for one second, then exhale slowly through your mouth until you can’t anymore. Repeat. Totally optional, but you can mentally think of (or say) affirmations during this exercise. Affirmations include:
“I am worthy of all things good.”
“I have gotten through everything.”
“I haven’t progressed this far on accident.”
“I am beautiful.”
“I am dope.”
“Good things are coming.”
“Setbacks are temporary.”
“I love myself.”
FOURTH. Maintain boundaries. Since George Floyd, cultural inclusion and diversity are heavy topics in the workplace. It’s okay to protect your mental health by not being expected to be the teacher. It’s okay to take a break from the staff meeting and return. Boundaries aren’t about being mean; it’s about sharing our limitations.
FIFTH. Exercise. There are so many articles out there that highlight a strong link between Black mental health and physical health. The stress of racism can cause physical health related issues. 30 mins a day of walking can help alleviate stress. This step is important. Take it a step farther and walk with someone. Taking a walk with like-minded people and community can have wonderful effects on our mental health.
SIXTH. Find ways to feel empowered. When looking for a medical provider, therapist, or any member of your care- choose selectively. It is important to have a provider that you trust. NAMI.org gives great examples of questions to ask yourself after a visit:
Did my provider communicate effectively with me?
Is my provider willing to integrate my beliefs, practices, identity and cultural background into my treatment plan?
Did I feel like I was treated with respect and dignity?
Do I feel like my provider understands and relates well with me?
It is important that you like your doctor. Outside of visits, do your own research and come with questions. It is important to feel empowered that you are working collaboratively and you are making active choices in your care.
My favorite search engines to search for a therapist are therapyforblackgirls.com, mytrucircle.com, and openpathcollective.org.
NAMI.org addresses all things mental health and has a great article and resource page on their site:
https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Identity-and-Cultural-Dimensions/Black-African-American
Overall, it is important to stay rooted in Black joy, take care of ourselves, and feel empowered about the decisions we make in our own lives.
Black Mental Health Matters.