There is no doubt that racism and discrimination have an adverse impact on mental health. Systemic racism has had a persistent and profound effect on countless members of the Black population. The increasing number of media reports and images of police brutality and violence has only made matters worse.
Inhabiting a Black body as a citizen of the United States comes with challenges and stressors no one else can understand. That’s why we must do all we can to practice self-care and engage in effective strategies to protect our mental health.
Here are essential self-care tips you can incorporate into your day to feel more at ease.
How to Look After Your Mental Health
1) Limit your time on social media.
Whether you’re a reporter covering the current political turmoil, a peaceful protester at the frontline, or simply a Black person being bombarded with news—limiting your social media presence is vital.
You should also not feel obligated to respond to questions from Non-Black friends and allies about how they can best support you right now. Besides the wealth of information that’s available online (books, podcasts, etc. ), it’s not your job to soothe guilt nor provide answers.
2) Create a Black-Only virtual group as a safety net.
If limiting your social media time seems a bit hard to do, especially if it’s a field you work in, never underestimate the solace you can receive from an intimate group chat that lets you speak your mind.
Having a private group can help alleviate the stress and trauma resurfacing in the Black community today. Venting, sharing resources, expressing your rollercoaster of raw emotions, and supporting others as they do the same is one of the most fundamental steps on this shared journey.
3) Look for low-cost or free therapy sessions.
If you believe you are suffering from anxiety or are eager to speak to a qualified professional, there are programs available to help those most in need. There are many organizations out there that were created specifically for Black people experiencing mental health issues.
For instance, Chicago-based company Sista Afya provides virtual, low-cost guidance; Black Men Heal has limited, and selective free mental health service opportunities for Black men.
Additionally, Therapy for Black Girls has Black counselors on their rosters, so make sure to consult them when looking for a therapist or beginning a new course of therapy.
3 Tips for Seeking Mental Healthcare
1) Remember you have nothing to prove.
Black individuals who are experiencing psychological and emotional health challenges have nothing to prove to anyone but themselves.
Of course, there are obligations to loved ones that must be fulfilled, but prioritizing mental and physical wellness so that you can be more present for those who love and depend on you is essential, but always remember to put yourself first.
2) You can pick your mental health professional.
No matter what your biological sex or racial or ethnic background, sitting down and sharing your deepest secrets can be challenging.
However, one benefit to seeking services is that, in most cases, you can choose the professional with whom you feel most comfortable. If you are uncomfortable with the first person selected, you can, and should, request someone else.
3) It is perfectly ok—and healthy—to seek psychiatric treatment, therapy, and counseling.
We need to retire this taboo stereotype about mental health resources once and for all. Any person who wants to speak with an objective and non-biased professional in a confidential setting should feel like they can be comfortable considering counseling without judgment.
For more mental health services geared towards the Black community, check out NAMI. They also have more articles on mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
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