Hey Vibers! It’s your boy, Ky!
Today, I’ll be talking about a subject very close to my heart: black mental health awareness.
Growing up in Hamilton, New Jersey, mental health was like a distant cousin I never knew existed. I’m talking about that cousin that randomly shows up all the time at family reunions. Do you have one of those?
Growing up, whether it be in school, in sports – everywhere – we always focused on physical strength, with mental wellbeing taking a backseat.
But let’s face it, mental health is like the foundation of a house – you might not always see that foundation, but it surely does hold everything up.
The Silent Struggle
Growing up, my experience mirrored many in my community. Discussions about mental health were incredibly rare. We all wore these emotional masks, masks that concealed our constant internal struggles emotionally.
Yet, underneath these masks, there’s a narrative that needs to be heard. According to SAMHSA’s 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 16% of Black and African American people reported having a mental illness. But how often do we talk about this?
Historical Shadows
The historical dehumanization of Black and African American people has left deep scars. These aren’t just stories from the past, they are shadows that follow us into the present, affecting our mental health in ways that often go unspoken.
Breaking the Stigma
We need to take time today to crack open some of these narratives. Imagine mental health stigma as a wall we’ve been building brick-by-brick. Many of us know that it’s time to dismantle it… but how do we do that?
- Speak Up: It starts with having the conversations in the first place. In our homes, in our communities, and yes, even in our churches.
- Education: Let’s debunk myths. Mental health isn’t a weakness. It’s as vital as physical health.
- Representation Matters: We need more Black and African American mental health professionals. People who look like us and understand our unique experiences.
The Light of Hope
Despite the darkness, there is hope. Organizations like Black Emotional and Mental Health (BEAM) and The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation are beacons of hope, guiding us towards a future where mental health is not just a whispered secret, but a shared journey.
My Journey. Our Journey.
Well into my 30s, I faced my own mental health battles. It was often like walking through a fog, trying to find any source of sun and guidance. I needed a direction to walk toward. It took time, support, and a lot of self-reflection, but here I am, talking to you about it. And that feels pretty damn good.
Join the Conversation
I want to hear your stories, Vibers. Let’s build a community where no one feels alone in their mental health journey. Check out The Vibe With Ky Podcast for more candid discussions and a sprinkle of humor, because sometimes, laughter really is the best medicine.
Call to Action
Don’t let the conversation end here. I have shared some additional resources within The Vibe With Ky Mental Health Resources Hub. Most importantly, however, your best bet is to always speak with a mental health professional if you have the means to do so.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Much love. Good vibes. – Ky
