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This Black History Month, and every day, let's delve into the history of systemic racism in the mental health system and its impact on Black communities globally. Understanding is the first step towards a mentally healthier world for all. BHL's focus is on amplifying the often-overlooked contributions of Black and African American individuals in the behavioral health movement. Acknowledging and addressing the underrepresentation of these communities is essential. Without this awareness, we risk perpetuating harm and injustice in the mental health sphere. Let's learn, recognize, and change together. #BlackHistoryMonth #MentalHealthAwareness

I'm issuing a challenge for May that is all about me sharing my platform and highlighting Black men AND women who are working to better our community in the areas of self empowerment, resiliance, mental health, emotional wellbeing and self care. 🧘🏽♀️ I want to do a LinkedIn Live Series for as many days as I have guests who are willing to talk to me in the month of May. It will be titled "Black Mental Health Matters: Amplifying Black Voices for Mental Health Awareness Month." If you would like to join me, the only requirement is that you: ✅ Talk to me on LinkedIn Live for an hour on any day YOU choose about uplifting and empowering Black people's mental health, emotional wellbeing and self care as a part of your DEMONSTRATED personal passion or SUCCESSFUL business initiatives. ✅ Have posted a selfie holding my newest book Protecting My Peace on LinkedIn for Mental Health Awareness Month and have completed a review of Protecting My Peace on Amazon. THIS is called RECIPROCITY. I have been giving a lot of my time and energy toward people who don't deserve it in the last four years. In 2024 people will have to PROVE that they are really in my corner before I give them my support or amplify their voices. I had to learn that the hard way. 🤷🏽♀️ Share this post and tag someone in the comments who you’d like me to interview on LinkedIn Live for Mental Health Awareness Month. #blacklivesmatter #mentalhealth #blackmentalheathmatters #culture #education #personaldevelopment

In our journey at Reecee's Reach, a nonprofit devoted to nurturing the well-being of Black women, we've encountered numerous mental health myths that shape how our community perceives and addresses these critical issues. Today, we want to share insights into how understanding and debunking these myths can empower and transform our community. The Impact of Myths on Mental Health One of the myths that we often come across is the belief that mental health issues are a sign of personal weakness. This couldn't be further from the truth. Mental health challenges are medical conditions, not a reflection of character or strength. Another common myth is the idea that mental health issues are uncommon within the Black community. Statistics tell a different story. According to the American Psychiatric Association, Black Americans are just as likely to experience mental health issues as any other group but are less likely to seek treatment. Strategies for Debunking Myths 1. Education and Awareness: The first step in debunking these myths is education. Understanding mental health and its complexities is vital. It's about spreading awareness that mental health conditions are common and treatable. 2. Encouraging Open Conversations: We need to foster an environment where discussing mental health is normalized. Sharing personal experiences can be compelling in breaking down stigma. 3. Promoting Accurate Representation: Media and cultural representation matter. We need more narratives that accurately depict the reality of mental health in our community. 4. Support Systems: Building strong support systems within our community is crucial. This involves not just family and friends but also accessible mental health services. Our Observations In our work, we've seen firsthand how these strategies can make a difference. When we educate and open up conversations, we create a ripple effect of understanding and empathy. By challenging these myths, we support individuals and strengthen our community as a whole. Understanding mental health is not just about dispelling myths; it's about empowering a community. It's about creating a world where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness. As we continue to challenge these misconceptions, let's remember our power in changing narratives and positively impacting lives. We encourage each of you to join us in being part of this change. Whether it's through spreading awareness, supporting a friend, or challenging a misconception, every action counts. Together, we can create a more understanding and supportive community. #mentalhealthawareness #communityempowerment #breakthestigma #reeceesreach

🔗 Breaking the Chains: Overcoming Historical Stigmas Surrounding Mental Health in the Black Community 🔗 📝 Part 1: Unraveling the Historical Stigmas Surrounding Mental Health in the Black Community 📝 Join us as we delve into the deep-seated stigmas surrounding mental health in the Black community. In this powerful exploration, we unravel the origins of these stigmas, shed light on their historical context, and embrace the resilience that is breaking these chains. Read the full blog post here: https://lnkd.in/efTin3U5 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we delve into actionable steps to address stigma and foster a culture of support. hashtag#MentalHealthAwareness hashtag#BlackHistoryMonth hashtag#BreakTheStigma hashtag#BLHF 

Greetings, LinkedIn community, Lately, I've been pondering the significant gap between therapy and the Black community through the lens of decolonialism and liberation. It's striking to see how traditional approaches may not resonate or work effectively for Black individuals due to the oppressive structures ingrained in most therapeutic models, hindering their healing journey while feeding the stigma within. This disconnect reflects the importance of exploring intergenerational lineage and the impact of historical trauma on mental health. I've identified is the internalized stigma from our community around mental health as well as the lack of accessibility in some therapeutic modality, which often fail to consider the interconnectedness of oppression and mental well-being. By centering anti-oppressive practices and embracing intergenerational healing, we have the opportunity to create more culturally relevant and empowering spaces for the Black community in Therapy. To bridge this gap and foster more inclusive mental health support, we must dismantle oppressive systems within therapy, paving the way for liberation and Black empowerment. Let's continue the conversation around enhancing mental health support for all, ensuring that therapy is truly inclusive and supportive of diverse needs, rooted in anti-oppressive principles. Thank you! #Therapy #Inclusivity #MentalHealthEquity #Decolonialism #Liberation #AntiOppressive #IntergenerationalLineage #DiversityandInclusion

Illuminating the Mental Health Journey of Black Men As we commemorate Black History Month, it's crucial to spotlight an often-overlooked aspect of well-being: mental health among Black men. Despite strides in awareness, Black men continue to face unique challenges and barriers to mental health support, rooted in systemic inequalities, cultural stigma, and historical trauma. The resilience of Black men through these adversities is commendable, yet it's essential to acknowledge that strength also comes from vulnerability and seeking help. It's high time we dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community. Initiatives focused on culturally sensitive therapy, community support, and open conversations can pave the way toward healing and empowerment. Let's commit to creating spaces where Black men feel seen, heard, and supported in their mental health journey. By addressing these issues head-on, we can foster a more inclusive and understanding society. This Black History Month, let's amplify the importance of mental health among Black men and champion the change toward better support and recognition of their struggles and strengths. #BlackHistoryMonth #MentalHealthAwareness #SupportBlackMen #EndTheStigma

Kicking off Mental Health Week with a powerful focus on Black Mental Health in the UK. Let's start the conversation! Systemic racism has created additional barriers for Black communities in the UK. 1 in 4 Black adults have experienced a mental health problem in their lifetime, yet Black people are significantly more likely to be diagnosed later, experience poorer treatment outcomes, and face stigma and discrimination when seeking help. This Mental Health Week, it's time to shine a spotlight on Black mental health and take action to break down barriers. Racial trauma and generational oppression have taken a toll. We must promote understanding, ensure culturally competent care, and tackle inequities in the mental health system. Most importantly, we must listen to Black voices and make space for healing. Together, we can drive change. Join us this week by celebrating Mental Health Awarness and the focus theme is 'movement'. With great understanding and knowledge, we can build a society that supports Black mental wellbeing. The path to progress starts with each of us. Have a great day all and let's make a change! #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthawareness2024 #movement #blackmentalhealth #diversity #society #makeachange #socialcause #mentalwellbeing Black Minds Matter UK Black Mental Health Manifesto Mental Health UKMental Health Foundation

Family First: How Black Men Empower Women and Boost Mental Health This Father's Day, we celebrate the crucial role of Black men in empowering women and boosting mental health. From breaking stereotypes to fostering strong family bonds, Black fathers are changing the narrative and strengthening communities. 📖 Dive into our latest blog.

Mental health issues among Black youth are rising, exacerbated by factors like social media, systemic racism, and recent social and political events. Addressing these issues early is critical for long-term well-being. Here is one example: Racial Discrimination and Trauma: Many Black youth experience racial discrimination and microaggressions in schools, social settings, and even within healthcare environments. This persistent exposure can lead to heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as a deep sense of mistrust towards institutions. What can we do as a community to improve these issues? #blackhealth #mentalhealth #community #socialworker

Really looking forward to this conversation with experts across education, mental health, and community activism/work to share how school systems can address the mental health stigma in school-based services and resources #mentalhealth #youthmentalhealth #daybreakhealth #healthequity #superintendents #breakthestigma #governors #educationpolicy