Choosing Joy: A Revolutionary Act For Black Mental Health
Happy Black History Month!
This is a time to honor our history, reflect on our resilience, and focus on how we continue to move forward, both collectively and individually.
James Baldwin once said, “To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a rage almost all the time.” His words are a reminder of the relentless pressures and challenges that come with being Black in America. And while we’ve made strides, the attacks on Black mental health are still everywhere—whether in the form of systemic racism, microaggressions, or societal expectations that demand we work harder just to be seen as equal.
Black Mental Health Matters
Here are some sobering facts:
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Black adults are 20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems, such as major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder.
Only 25% of Black people who need mental health services receive them, compared to 40% of White individuals.
Black communities face higher rates of trauma, whether due to violence, poverty, or generational inequities, which further impacts emotional wellness.
In a world that often devalues Black lives, it’s no wonder so many of us carry an invisible weight. But here’s the truth: We deserve better.
Choosing Joy Is Revolutionary
In the face of these challenges, choosing joy is not just an act of resistance—it’s a radical form of self-care.
Joy is a refusal to let oppression dictate our emotions.
Joy is reclaiming our right to breathe deeply, laugh loudly, and embrace our full humanity.
Joy is understanding that we are worthy of peace, love, and abundance, no matter what the world tries to tell us.
This Black History Month, I encourage you to unapologetically choose joy. Make time for the things that make your heart sing—whether it’s connecting with loved ones, dancing to your favorite music, or simply taking a moment to breathe.
Resources For Your Wellness Journey
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start, here are a few steps you can take:
Seek community: Lean on people who understand and uplift you.
Practice mindfulness: Meditation, journaling, or simply sitting in stillness can work wonders.
Ask for help: There is no shame in seeking therapy or counseling. Culturally competent therapists can provide the safe space you need to heal.
Remember, we honor our ancestors not only by fighting for justice but also by taking care of ourselves. They dreamed of a future where we could thrive—not just survive.
Let’s make that future a reality, one joyful moment at a time.
In unapologetic Blackness,
Adrianne
