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Brown Care Collective Acknowledges Mental Health Awareness Month

Writer's picture: Brown Care CollectiveBrown Care Collective




In this hectic world, the importance of mental health cannot be overstated. For BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) women, this journey toward wellness is both deeply personal and can feel more like a revolution once we begin.


The increased awareness on mental health the past couple of years has brought a lot of attention to the topic. However, it takes a small amount of acceptance to see mental health as more than a trendy topic and something that we all need to work on. We want to understand its importance and prioritize it in our lives. Our minds and nervous system need it!


The Importance of Mental Health


Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. As women of color, we’re faced with the same issues as women across the globe, yet so much more. 


Systemic oppression, racism, labels, the list goes on and on. It can be heavy, dealing with the effects of world issues. It can also feel heavy dealing with things closer to home. The feeling of holding the needs of the household, family, community, and churches all on our backs is a weight that many women of color bear. 


For BIPOC women, maintaining mental health is particularly important because we are too good at doing it all. We can wear 6 different hats at the same time, and make it look effortless. But at what cost? How long can we ride on fumes? More and more people are understanding that we have to start taking care of our minds and bodies. Doing this not only helps us manage the loads we carry, but also feels good inside and out.


Steps Toward Wellness


How do we begin to understand what we need to do to increase our mental health? Here’s a list of things you can try and see how they make you feel. This is a not one of those lists that we have to check off each box. It’s actually more of a reference. This refernce shows many ways to take care of ourselves. Finding what works and deciding how much time we can invest into these resources is a personal decision. This is why it's a wellness journey, because it takes practice and will shift over time. You can come back to this resource as often as you need, and you can also create your own.


  1. Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Learn about mental health and how it impacts your life. Resources like books, articles, and podcasts by BIPOC authors and speakers can offer valuable insights.

  2. Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups who understand your journey. Online communities and local wellness circles for BIPOC women can provide a sense of belonging and shared experience.

  3. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and joy. Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises are excellent ways to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.

  4. Therapy and Counseling: Don't hesitate to seek professional help. Therapists who specialize in BIPOC mental health can offer tailored strategies for managing stress and improving well-being.

  5. Mindfulness and Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine. These practices can help you stay grounded and present, reducing anxiety and improving emotional regulation.

  6. Healthy Lifestyle: Nutrition, exercise, and sleep play significant roles in mental health. Prioritize a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate rest to support your overall well-being.


Conclusion


Prioritizing mental health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, especially for BIPOC women who face unique challenges. As you navigate this journey, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Embrace self-care practices and advocate for your mental health. Your well-being matters, and you deserve to thrive.



 

Want to check off some of these items? Come to our next Are+Be Yoga Class for self-care, support, mindfulness, and more!





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