The Importance of Mental Health in the Black Community
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One reason why mental health is especially important for
Black individuals is that they often experience higher levels of stress and
trauma. The Black community has a long history of discrimination and
oppression, and this can take a significant toll on mental health. For example,
studies have shown that Black individuals are more likely to experience
racism-related stress, which can lead to a range of negative mental health
outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD).
In addition to experiencing higher levels of stress and
trauma, Black individuals may also face barriers to accessing mental health
care. These barriers can include financial constraints, lack of insurance
coverage, and limited availability of mental health providers in their
communities. As a result, Black individuals may be less likely to seek out
mental health treatment, even when they are experiencing mental health
challenges.
Another factor that can impact mental health in the Black
community is the stigma surrounding mental illness. Many Black individuals may
feel that seeking mental health treatment is a sign of weakness or that it is
not a priority in their community. This stigma can prevent individuals from
seeking the help they need and can also contribute to a lack of understanding
and support for those who are struggling with mental health issues.
Common Mental Health Issues among Black Americans
- Anxiety disorders: These are characterized by feelings of excessive worry, nervousness, and fear. Examples include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias.
- Mood disorders: These involve persistent changes in mood that can interfere with daily life. Examples include depression and bipolar disorder.
- Psychotic disorders: These involve distorted thinking and perception and can cause hallucinations and delusions. Examples include schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.
- Personality disorders: These involve persistent patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are significantly different from cultural norms and can cause problems in relationships and daily life. Examples include borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder.
- PTSD: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops following exposure to a traumatic event. The person may have feelings of numbness and detachment, be easily startled, and have difficulty sleeping. PTSD can develop after any type of traumatic event such as military combat, sexual assault, or a natural disaster. It can also occur after witnessing an event that causes injury or death to another person.
- Substance abuse disorders: These involve the excessive use of drugs or alcohol and can lead to addiction.
It is Important...
for the Black community to work towards breaking down the barriers that prevent individuals
from accessing the care they need. This can include advocating for policies and
programs that support mental health care, working to reduce stigma and
discrimination, and providing support and resources for those who are
struggling with mental health issues. By taking steps to prioritize mental
health, we can help ensure that we have the support and
resources we need to thrive and lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Best Mental Health Practices
The idea of mental health has been around for centuries. The earliest records of mental illness date back to the Egyptians, who believed that the brain was the center of all mental activity. Mental illnesses were seen as a result of an imbalance in bodily fluids and were treated with physical remedies.
Mental health is defined as a state of emotional and psychological well-being in which every individual realizes her or his own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community. Mental health includes our social, emotional, psychological and intellectual well-being.
There are many best practices that people can do to improve their mental health. Therapy is a social and emotional intervention that helps individuals identify and resolve problems they may be having in their lives. It is one of the most effective ways to find solutions to mental health issues.
The best mental health practices are generally the ones that work for you. There are many different types of mental health practices, and it is important to find what works for you.
1) Get a good night's sleep (get those 8 hours!)
2) Eat well (fruits and vegetables work best with our metabolic system)
3) Exercise regularly (just 20 minutes a day makes a difference)
4) Practice mindfulness meditation (you know I am a HUGE advocate of this one)
5) Consider metaphysical outlets such as; spiritual retreats, self-help books and audio affirmations. (Research out of the box methods to help with any mental and emotional trauma)
It's important to have good sleep hygiene by getting enough sleep every night (7-8 hours), having a regular bedtime routine (such as reading), avoiding caffeine after 2 p.m., avoiding alcohol before bedtime , and keeping the room dark. Avoid screens an hour before bedtime, including phones, computers and televisions. Eat a light dinner (no heavy meals) or avoid consuming food after 7 p.m. Avoid caffeine after 2 p.m., alcohol before bedtime. Take a long, hot shower or bath before bed-Get a massage before bedtime-Use lavender oil to promote relaxation and sleep meditations.
Simply put there is always a way to find your joyous place, just often times we must reach beyond our comfort zones to achieve maximum results. Understand that your journey begins in your mind and ends in your heart. Take charge of your mental health, take the leap of faith for you, because you deserve it!
w/Love, Tia'Niki
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