I AM COMMITTED TO BLACK MENTAL WELLNESS.
The birth of The Black Mental Affect emerged from deep exhaustion with concealing my own mental illness in plain sight. The constant facade of saying "I'm fine" or "I'm good" while silently suffering within became unbearable. I refused to be judged for having a mental illness, labeled as a drama queen, or dismissed as perpetually negative. It was time to dispel stigmas, decolonize mental illness in the Black community, and facilitate the reclamation of Black joy.
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Witnessing the mistreatment of Black patients who found themselves in emergency rooms due to lack of health insurance, underinsurance, or facing discrimination by healthcare staff only intensified my determination. The arduous search for therapists and psychiatrists who shared my cultural background proved disheartening. They were often unavailable to accept new clients, out of my insurance network, beyond a reasonable driving distance, or operating from a colonized perspective.
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Furthermore, treatment plans frequently failed to acknowledge the nuances of our African lineage, our way of life, and the essence of our being. I yearned to establish culturally affirming spaces where Black individuals could openly discuss the reasons behind our collective avoidance of mental health conversations. Equally important was ensuring that resources were readily accessible to Black people, as they are too often out of reach. Sharing my own story became a beacon of hope, fostering a sense of unity and reminding other Black individuals that they were not alone.
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The Black Mental Affect was created to dismantle the walls of silence, challenge the status quo, and forge a future where mental health is prioritized within the Black community. It stands as a platform to dispel stigmas, decolonize mental illness, and provide much-needed resources to uplift and empower Black individuals. Together, we can create a supportive environment where Black joy is reclaimed; cultural heritage is honored, and mental well-being flourishes.
I am an impassioned mental health activist with an extensive personal journey spanning over 30 years, and I proudly founded The Black Mental Affect. This transformative initiative was born out of my commitment to dispel the stigma surrounding mental health and mental illness within the Black community while also working to decolonize Black minds and assist in reclaiming the revolutionary joy of being Black.
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My expertise lies in facilitating necessary and sometimes uncomfortable conversations about mental health and mental illness, creating a safe space where Black individuals can explore these topics openly. I am deeply aware of the systemic racism that underlies the mental healthcare industry and the healing practices that affect our community. As a result, I strive to empower Black individuals to interrupt these harmful patterns and advocate for their mental well-being.
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Additionally, I am dedicated to supporting Black entrepreneurs in prioritizing their mental wellness. I understand the challenges they face in navigating their businesses while avoiding burnout, and I offer guidance to ensure that mental well-being remains at the forefront of their endeavors.
Through my lived experience and personal encounters with mental health challenges, including being a three-time suicide attempt survivor, I draw upon my knowledge of the mental health system to connect with people on a profound level. While I am not a certified mental health professional, I leverage my gift of empathy and understanding to provide resources and referrals to those seeking mental health professionals.
With hope for the future of Black mental health, I actively encourage Black individuals to embrace their wellness and become catalysts for change within their communities. As a mother of three grown children and a grandmother, I am personally invested in creating a world where mental well-being is embraced and celebrated.
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Please note that while I can offer resources and referrals, it is important to consult with certified mental health professionals for personalized guidance and treatment.