Let’s be real for a moment. The past year has been incredibly challenging. It feels like we’ve been stuck in an endless cycle of pandemic updates, political chaos, and social upheaval. Occasionally, something different breaks through this cycle—celebrity news, a performance by popular artists, or a viral trend. But inevitably, once the excitement fades, we return to the same overwhelming reality, and the burden of these unprecedented times weighs heavily on us.
After everything we’ve endured, it’s crucial for everyone in the United States to focus not just on our physical health—especially with Covid-19 still a concern—but also on our mental health. If you’ve never considered reaching out to a mental health professional, now is the time. Even if you feel “fine,” prioritizing and nurturing your mental health should be just as routine as your regular dental check-up.
That said, I want to highlight a specific group that may need a gentle nudge—or even a firm push—to check in with themselves and seek help: Black mothers. I’m speaking to you—and to myself.
I understand that mental health is important for everyone, regardless of race or background. We all face challenges, and it’s vital to destigmatize the pursuit of mental health resources. However, Black mothers have carried a particularly heavy load over the past year, and the impact on our mental well-being is profound.
A 2020 article from Prevention Magazine highlighted that Black adults, particularly Black women, report higher levels of sadness and hopelessness compared to their white counterparts. Yet, only 30% of Black adults who needed mental health support in 2017 actually received it. There are numerous reasons why seeking mental health services can be daunting in our community—from distrust in the healthcare system to historical reliance on faith and the financial hurdles many face.
Three Compelling Reasons to Seek Help
Given the challenges of the past year, it’s crucial for Black mothers to seek help from mental health professionals. Here are three compelling reasons why we can no longer afford to overlook this pressing issue:
- Covid-19’s Disproportionate Impact: Black and Brown communities have been hit harder by Covid-19, with data showing that we are more likely to be diagnosed, hospitalized, and lose our lives to the virus. For Black mothers, this means caring for our families during a pandemic while potentially grieving lost loved ones. The emotional toll is exhausting.
- Challenges in Education: Many Black families have opted for virtual schooling due to concerns about Covid-19, even when in-person classes are available. This choice stems from a deep-seated mistrust of the education system, compounded by the pandemic’s effects. The burden of supporting our children’s education, while juggling work and family responsibilities, can be overwhelming.
- Systemic Injustice: The ongoing violence against Black lives and systemic racism has left many of us grieving and fearful for our children. The loss of lives like Daunte Wright, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless others weighs heavily on our hearts. The emotional strain from this collective trauma is immense, and we must find ways to process it.
To my fellow Black mothers, I urge you to seek professional help for your mental health. This is not a sign of weakness; it’s a testament to our strength. Taking care of ourselves is essential for our families and communities.
For those of you who are not Black mothers, I encourage you to support and uplift the Black mothers in your lives, helping them prioritize their mental health.
We all know that the power of Black girl magic can transform the world. Let’s ensure that our mothers have the support they need to thrive. If you’re interested in further resources, check out this insightful blog post here, and consider visiting Make a Mom for more information. For comprehensive resources on pregnancy and home insemination, UCSF’s Center is an excellent option.
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In summary, it’s vital for Black mothers to prioritize their mental health, especially after a year filled with challenges. Seeking professional help is a sign of strength, and we must support one another in this journey toward well-being.
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