Mental Health Awareness Month

Many years ago, when I was in my twenties, I was dealing with some issues from my childhood that I did not know how or who I could turn to. I was a new wife and mother, and I was trying to navigate waters that were new to me. As an adult survivor of abuse and abandonment from both of my parents, I struggled with appropriate role models. Although I had an amazing grandmother who raised me, my grandfather passed away before I was born so the husband, wife, and children dynamic in the home was a bit sketchy for me. My first husband was concerned for my wellbeing and suggested that I get some help by seeing a therapist or counselor.  Coming from the hood that was seen as weak or that you had a problem, and I did not want to come across as such.  The truth was that I did have a problem, and it took strength to admit I needed help. I was dealing with intergenerational trauma without even knowing what I was facing.

Over the years people have been hesitant to talk about things that bother them because they did not want others to think something was wrong with them.  If the issue they wrestled with involved their thoughts or mindset, they were even more so convinced they should remain silent. Silence can be a deadly killer. We must learn to not only speak up but advocate for spaces that allow people to express themselves and what they are dealing with. The month of May has been designated as Mental Health Awareness Month. I am happy that the light has been shown upon this issue because if we do not take care of our mind, body and soul, we will not live a healthy lifestyle. We must learn to love and care about our entire bodies and that includes our mental health.

When we make it acceptable and even encourage those around us to talk about their mental health, we open the door to reducing the stigma and promote dialogue regarding our mental wellbeing. For African Americans and Black women in particular, there are a host of issues and stressors that affect us.  We not only oftentimes carry the weight of supporting and helping multiple generations in our families; we also do our best to keep the torch lit for our communities. Healthcare disparities in our neighborhoods are a major factor that prohibits us sometimes from getting the help we need and racism is still a factor we cannot ignore.

Since we are aware of these issues what can we do to make mental health something that people are willing to talk about and not be ashamed? First, we must be willing to have open, real, and sometimes vulnerable conversations that show we are all in this together. Second, we must not make fun of others when they are seeking the help they desire. Third, if you know of resources that you can share with someone who may be in need speak up.  We can empower one another just by being real and understanding there is no shame in facing and working on your mental health.

Remember, we need to practice self-care and mindfulness to help reduce the stress in our lives. Caring for our mind is just as important as caring for our bodies. We should be proactive in supporting organizations and health practitioners who are committed and dedicated to improving the wellness of our communities.  There is no shame in this game. Our struggles do not define us, they only reveal what we need to work on. In the end when we care for ourselves, we can generate a ripple effect for others including the next generation. The problem with mental health concerns is they are often invisible.  They cannot be seen with the naked eye the way you can see an outward wound, but not taking care of your mental health can be just as deadly. #mentalhealthawarenessmonth

Healing Without Hate: It's a choice. It's a lifestyle. Pass it on.

Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.