Rest. Reflect. Reset. Your Mental Health Matters.
Our healing doesn’t follow a calendar. It’s urgent, ongoing, and deeply personal.
As a public health professional specializing in substance use and mental health, I’ve seen firsthand how racial trauma, stigma, and systemic barriers impact Black communities every day—not just during a designated observance. Despite these challenges, I continue to be inspired by the resilience in our communities and the power of culturally grounded healing practices that affirm who we are and what we have endured.
Here are some ways to prioritize mental health that centers Black experiences:
1. Setting Boundaries: Self-Protection
Setting boundaries isn't selfish—it's sacred. For Black women especially, we're often expected to carry everyone's burdens while neglecting our own needs. Studies have found that Black women who practiced consistent boundary-setting reported 38% lower rates of burnout.(1) So start small: decline one request this week and remember that "no" is a complete sentence.
2. Embracing Therapy: Breaking Generational Patterns
Finding a culturally aware and competent therapist who understands racial dynamics and trauma can be transformative. Therapy for Black Girls and Black Mental Health Alliance have made this search easier, and there are many more support resources available. Seeking support isn't a sign of weakness—it's wisdom and strength.
3. Finding Strength in Community (Together)
Participating in regular community activities can lower rates of depression symptoms compared to being socially isolated. Whether it's church groups, book clubs, or virtual support networks—finding your people matters.
4. Consider Mental Health as Health
Research indicates that Black Americans experience higher rates of chronic conditions directly connected to stress and mental well-being.(2) Prioritize your mental health as consistently as your physical health, and seek out doctors who understand the connection between the two.
5. Honoring Rest and Relaxation:
Resistance in a world that demands productivity is critical. Black Americans are 41% more likely to report insufficient sleep—an issue linked to both stress and environmental factors.(3) Intentional rest isn't being lazy—it's self-care. Schedule joy and regular times to disconnect from work and create routines that signal to your body it's time to relax.
As Mental Health Awareness Month ends, consider your current own needs and remember that healing isn't linear. At Melanin Thriving, we're committed to supporting you beyond trending hashtags, sharing health information and resources that honor the fullness of Black experiences.
Take care of your mind. Your spirit. Your story. You matter—not because of what you produce, but simply because you exist.
References
Journal of Black Psychology. (2023). Boundary Setting as Protective Factor Against Burnout in Black Women. Vol 49(2), 178-196.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Health Disparities in Mental Health Treatment Among Black Americans. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Sleep Foundation. (2023). Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Sleep Health. Retrieved from www.sleepfoundation.org/research.