This is your reminder to release that breath you’ve been holding in. Exhale.
These are difficult times for the Black community; between the protests regarding the systematic killings of several Black people, poor leadership from an incompetent president, and facing setbacks and obstacles due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s safe to say that our mental health is at risk. Mental health has always been a bit taboo amongst African Americans, but now more than ever, the Black community needs to check into the resources available by mental health professionals.
You can seek and receive support.
Speak with a therapist
African Americans have different cultural experiences that make up their livelihood. These experiences aren’t always negative. However, when they are, it’s easier to have a Black psychologist who can relate in that particular sense. Also, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Black patients are more likely to experience misdiagnosis and discrimination in the health care system. So, racial identity plays a massive role while searching for a psychologist or therapist who will be more suitable to discuss mental health topics with.
Dr. Abigail Nicolas is a Black psychologist with the Therapy Group of DC. The Therapy Group of DC is a dedicated team of therapists who have excelled in the field of psychology. They have dedicated themselves to providing continuous guidance by using data-driven treatments to personally match you with a therapist that would benefit you the best.
Dr. Abigail Nicolas is one of their best therapists; as an active member of the Association of Black Psychologists, the American Psychological Association, and the Society for Counseling Psychology, Dr. Nicolas has an impressive history of studying Black psychology that greatly benefits African Americans (Black women especially). The Therapy Group of DC is currently accepting patients via teletherapy.
Surround yourself with good influences
It’s essential that you’re intentional with what you allow yourself to consume in this digital age. It has been exhausting to log onto social media, only to see another victim’s name trending. It has been heartbreaking to log onto social media, only to see another case of racial injustice. The news can certainly drain your spirit; fortunately, there is other content that we can focus on to build up our energy again.
Here are a few powerful influencers that will help restore your spirit whenever you feel like it’s been broken down:
- Alexandra Elle: One word: affirmations. Follow her Instagram for daily affirmations that will remind you of your self-worth, resilience, and well-deserved love.
- Morgan Harper Nicholas: What do you get with you combine heartwarming poetry with beautiful art? You find the opportunity to heal all over again.
- Cleo Wade: As an author who writes about loving and living, it’s inspiring to see her content consistently in the midst of overwhelming news.
Join an online community
We are so much stronger together. We get so much more work done together. We are in this together. Many brands and collectives have dedicated their work to build a safe haven for communities. Here are a few that we especially admire:
- Black Girl In Om: BGIO has been using their platform to create space for Black women to breathe. If you’re into meditations and manifestations, this is the perfect community for you to join.
- HealHaus: As a wellness cafe and concept, HealHaus encourages you to include wellness in every aspect of your life.
- Saddie Baddies: As a virtual safe space, Saddie Baddies allow their audience to explore topics that impact their mental health and wellbeing.
You can find more Black resources here. Keep your head up, and keep remembering to exhale.