“I Realized That We Can Lose Our Mental Health If We Don't Make Ourselves A Priority.”

Photography By, Jessica Felicio

Black women embody resilience, strength, and nurturing, qualities so deeply embedded that self-care and mental wellness frequently get overlooked. Recognizing that overlooking one's well-being can erode mental health serves as both an alarm and a call to action for Black women to reevaluate and elevate the importance of self-care in their lives.

Black women have historically been the backbone of their communities, providing support to everyone around them while simultaneously battling systemic inequalities and personal challenges. This dual fight against societal and personal pressures creates a set of stressors that can weigh heavily on mental health. The strong Black woman syndrome, a cultural expectation that Black women should display strength at all times and suppress vulnerabilities, further exacerbates the problem, leaving little room for admitting struggles or seeking help.

The acknowledgment that "we can lose our mental health if we don't make ourselves a priority" is a poignant reminder of the fragility of our well-being in the absence of self-care. Making oneself a priority is not an act of selfishness but a necessary step towards mental wellness. It involves setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, seeking professional help when needed, and finding joy in daily life.

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Setting boundaries is crucial. It means saying no to additional responsibilities that stretch you thin and yes to opportunities that foster growth and happiness. It's about recognizing the importance of your own needs and giving yourself permission to put them first. This could mean delegating tasks, taking breaks from social media, or simply allowing yourself time to rest without feeling guilty.

Practicing self-compassion involves changing the harsh narrative we often have about ourselves. Black women should embrace their vulnerabilities as strengths and treat themselves with the same kindness and understanding they offer to others. This means forgiving yourself for not meeting unrealistic standards of perfection and celebrating your efforts and achievements.

Seeking professional help is a vital component of making oneself a priority. Therapy can provide a safe space to unpack the burdens of racial trauma, societal expectations, and personal challenges. It's an act of self-love to seek support in understanding and managing your mental health.

Finding joy in daily life is equally important. It's about connecting with the things that make your heart sing, whether it's through hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying moments of solitude. Joy is a powerful antidote to stress and a crucial element in building a resilient mental health foundation.

For Black women, making oneself a priority is not just about individual well-being but also about setting a precedent for future generations. It's about breaking the cycle of neglecting personal health in the service of others and cultivating a culture where mental wellness is prioritized.

The journey towards prioritizing self and mental health is a deeply personal one, filled with challenges and triumphs. But the realization that our mental health can suffer if we don't make ourselves a priority is the first step towards a healthier, happier life. It's a call to action for Black women to cherish their well-being, embrace their needs, and step into a brighter, more balanced future.