There is a still stigma in the Black Community when it comes to seeking mental health support. It is not uncommon for people to be criticized for seeking professional help by seeing a therapist.
Some of the comments are:
- There is nothing wrong with you
- Talk to the pastor at the church
- You just need to get some rest
- Are you “crazy?”
- All they want to do is take your money
- Don’t let those people be messing with your head
For too many years, when Black people has felt inclined to seek professional help to support their mental health, they have been labeled crazy or compared to being weak. What will it take to get past this incorrect, hurtful mindset? If you are experiencing sadness and feel you may be depressed, and this feeling has gone one for over a month, this may be a sign that you need to seek professional help.
Here are some options for seeking professional support:
- Talk to your primary care physician and ask for a referral
- Decide who you feel most comfortable with (male/female, race, belief system) But, keep an open mind because good help can come from places you least expected
- Start a journal and start writing down your feelings
- Decide to keep your mental health plan confidential if you think family and friends will not be supportive
- If you have thoughts of harming yourself call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room or mental health hospital.
- Comment yourself for taking the first step after attending your first session
Keep an open mind and remember the purpose of Mental Health is to be the Best You Ever. It is nothing to be embarrassed about when it comes to dealing with childhood trauma, abuse, sadness, disappointment, guilt, depression, anxiety, fears, and phobias. Everyone deserves a chance to enjoy life. Make that call today.