Happy World Mental Health Day!
As a Black female physician, I know that there are unique challenges that Black women face when it comes to mental health. I have witnessed it first-hand, and black women are more likely to experience discrimination and racism, which can lead to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Black women are also less likely to seek professional help for mental health problems, due to a number of factors including stigma and lack of access to affordable care.
On this World Mental Health Day, I want to encourage all Black women and everyone else to take care of their mental health. If you are struggling, please know that you are not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help. Please reach out to a friend, family member, therapist, or other trusted person for support.
Here are a few tips that you may have heard before. However, I urge you to take them serious:
Talk about your mental health. It is important to talk about your feelings with someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, therapist, or religious leader.
Try to get adequate sleep. Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep per night. When you are well-rested, you are better able to cope with stress and manage your emotions.
Eat nutritious foods that give your body the energy it needs to function properly, including your brain.
Exercise regularly. Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Avoid drugs and alcohol. Drugs and alcohol can worsen mental health problems.
Seek professional help if needed. If you are struggling with your mental health, please don't hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can teach you coping skills and help you develop a treatment plan.
Together, we can break down the stigma associated with mental health and ensure that everyone has access to the care they need.
Additional resources:
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaNzWjA23x9EvaVU3jYw15A
MentalHealth.gov: https://youth.gov/federal-links/mentalhealthgov
Black Mental Health Alliance: https://blackmentalhealth.com/
The Loveland Foundation: https://thelovelandfoundation.org/
Therapy for Black Girls: https://therapyforblackgirls.com/start-here/
Please take care of yourselves and each other.