Feeling a certain way and wanting to talk to someone but not knowing where to start is a common experience. You’re not alone in this.
The COVID-19 pandemic and worldwide protests following the killing of George Floyd stirred up a lot of feelings that we now know were/are related to trauma and stimulated open discussion about mental health and well-being, especially among African Americans and other marginalized populations.
That combination of circumstances – the pandemic, killing of George Floyd and subsequent conversations – proved to be a psychological jolt that signaled something had to be done.
But what?
Combination of Issues
Print and network news coverage and access to social media 24/7 about the traumatizing impact of these events intensified the experience for many individuals, families and entire communities who are still reeling from the impact.
The emotional and mental health impact is well documented and still evolving. Loss-related grief, fear, sadness, anger, depression and anxiety are the most cited among other psychological disorders cited by the National Institutes of Health and a plethora of studies that examined the impact of these events.
For African Americans and other marginalized populations (regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status), the impact of the trauma experienced over the last 2 ½ years lingers in the preconscious mind (just below the surface), along with the effects of systemic racism that have and continue to leave African American individuals, families and communities suspended in a haze as to when or if they will ever gain a sense of relief or normalcy.
Now, just as many thought the worst was behind us, there is talk of instability in the economy and talk of massive job loss daily in the news. This is in addition to ongoing high food and gas prices and the reality that owning a car or home, or even renting an apartment, is proving to be out of reach for many.
Amid it all, the overturning of laws meant to protect African Americans and other marginalized populations is in full effect. Yes, dismantling decades-fought Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) protections is in full effect. This means our ability to fight systemic racism amid the storms coming is being weakened. If you have not heard or felt its effects or have not been paying attention because you believe it may not apply to you, it will.
Finally, but of utmost importance, public education on all levels is becoming the theater for partisan politics in America in an effort for those in power to undermine how public schools operate. Couple this with the fact that many cities across America are one disaster away from pure chaos, something many Houstonians are aware of as we approach a predicted “very busy” hurricane season.
But what does all of this have to do with mental health? And what can I do for me or someone I know?
Over-Stressed
Health and mental health professionals agree that there is good stress, like the stress you feel before a test that motivates you to study, and bad stress – stress that overwhelms or incapacitates you and causes your mind, body and/or spirit damage.
There’s a reason stress is known as a silent killer. While we might outwardly discount what is bothering us as problematic, our minds and bodies respond internally. So, if you are feeling a “certain kind of way” navigating life’s challenges (ex: relationship challenges, job loss, illness, etc.), here are a few things you can do.
Healthy Ways to Deal with Stress
First and foremost, understand that everybody is going through something. If you are human, and especially if you are Black, you are going through something. Ways to help deal with stress include talking to a trusted friend or family member, engaging in community, seeking professional help, and utilizing available mental health resources.
This article was written by Dr. Deborah M. Wilson, LPC, LCDC