Welcome to Soft Launch, a column by Elyse Fox on mental health and wellbeing in a world that often feels anything but soft and cushy. In this installment of the column, Elyse gives tips on how to break through mental health stigma for Mental Health Awareness Month.
If you asked me 10 years ago which career path I’d choose, without a doubt I would have responded with something in the creative field. I never imagined that I would make being open about my mental health a career path, or even be open about it at all. In my early years growing up in the Bronx, the topic was unfamiliar territory in my home. As much as talking about our mental health is becoming more normalized, I want to acknowledge that being the first in your family or community to speak out is still difficult — and even further complicated by race, gender, and class. Navigating the intersection of race and mental health as a Black woman is a multifaceted challenge; historical and systemic barriers often compound feelings of stigma and silence, making it difficult to openly address mental health concerns. The burden of representation and the pressure to conform to societal expectations can create additional hurdles, leading many Black women to grapple with their struggles in isolation, hesitant to seek support for fear of judgment or discrimination.
Breaking the silence means confronting long-held taboos and challenging deeply ingrained beliefs. It means stepping into uncharted territory, armed with courage and compassion, to advocate for yourself and those around you. In the digital age, when social media often serves as both a catalyst for connection and a breeding ground for comparison, the need for self-care and mental resilience has never been more pressing. The pressure to excel academically, professionally, and socially can feel overwhelming, leaving many of us feeling depleted and disconnected.
.jpg)
So, how do we navigate this complex landscape while staying true to ourselves and our values? How do we prioritize our mental health, particularly when doing so can be taboo?
First and foremost, it's essential to recognize that you are not alone. Many feel isolated by mental health, particularly if they’re experiencing stigma or are from communities in which mental health isn’t often acknowledged. But in reality, about 1 in 5 people have mental health struggles. One way to remember you aren’t alone in this is to try to build community with others who are open about their mental health. Research has shown that building social connections can improve your mental health. You can find these kinds of spaces online, (my faves include Sad Girls Club, Saddie Baddies and Art Mom Project) or by talking with friends who you expect to be accepting.
Secondly, it’s important to embrace the power of your accessible self-care. Social connections are helpful, but you can also take steps alone to support your own mental health. Those can include the following:
- Create a healthy relationship with social media.
- Seek out a new hobby.
- Engage in creative pursuits (without monetizing).
- Practice living in the present moment.
- Prioritize activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul.
- Cultivate a sense of compassion and kindness towards yourself.
- Recognize that you are deserving of love and care, just as you are.
Last, but certainly not least, seek professional help. If you’re really struggling with your mental health (or even if you just need a little guidance), finding a therapist can be a huge relief. For many marginalized people, seeking out a culturally competent therapist can be a game changer, though it can be easier said than done. To find a mental health professional who understands your unique needs, you can look for someone from your specific community (guides like this and this can help point you in the right direction); ask trusted friends or online communities for recommendations; And if you have health insurance, there may be options to filter your search to find therapists with specific backgrounds. Remember to give yourself grace if you don't get it right on the first try. You can “date” a few therapists to help yourself find the perfect fit.
Once you’ve taken care of yourself, and if you feel comfortable doing so, don't be afraid to advocate for change. Speak out against stigma and discrimination, both within your family and in society at large. Use your voice to challenge misconceptions and advocate for policies and programs that support mental health and well-being for all. You don’t need a big platform to be an inspiration for change.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of the modern world, let us remember that our mental health is not a luxury; it's a fundamental human right. By prioritizing our well-being and breaking the silence surrounding mental health, we can create a brighter, more compassionate future for ourselves and generations to come. To the leaders out there who are the first in their families to prioritize mental health, know that your courage and resilience are paving the way for a better tomorrow. You are not just navigating, you are leading the way towards a world where mental health is valued, celebrated, and prioritized.
