They are psychologists, survivors, and celebrity advocates ready to connect with your audience to help them understand the struggles involved with mental health and how we can be advocates for those around us. I just felt lost. In the original group of celebrities, 78% were white, 12% black, 5% latinx, and 5% mixed race. As these celebs show, there is no shame in seeking help and no shame in being open about mental health. We Tried All The Best Anxiety Apps So You Don't Have To, The 11 Best Accessible Sex Toys For Disabled Folks, The Best Essential Oils for Hemorrhoids: Treatments and Remedies, Is it Stress or Anxiety? Universal Health Coverage: The Key to Preventing another Pandemic? Mental Health Leaders and Celebrities Gather to Advocate for Black Maternal Mental Health. Some have even opened up about their own mental health healing journeys, helping to remove stigma and normalize getting help within the Black community. So why wouldnt I go to a shrink?, I struggled with depression. Mental health conditions have long carried a stigma with it, particularly when it comes to the Black community. So in 2021, when Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles chose their mental health and wellness over competition and entertaining the worlds sports fans, it was groundbreaking. The struggle was intense Low self-esteem might be rooted in childhood feelings of inferiority. Across Africa, theres growing momentum to increase the continents capacity to handle disease threats. Howie Mandel Araya Diaz via Getty Images Olympic gold medal-winning swimmer Simone Manuel, 24, spoke openly about taking a break after being diagnosed with overtraining syndrome this year, as she suffered from depression, anxiety, insomnia and loss of appetite. Learn More Take Action Join our movement. Photo: agefotostock / Alamy Stock Photo. Cudis revelation that hed been battling suicidal thought and depression sparked a much needed conversation about masculinity and mental health in the black community. Fax: 202.887.9021, Black Health Matters: Innovators, Researchers, and Advocates Leading The Way. HOUSTON, July 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Across the country from July 19-25, mental health leaders . Through rational behavior therapy, he formulated a comprehensive system of cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and counseling that incorporated, in a clinically useful way, the most recent neuropsychological facts about how the brain works in relation to emotional and behavioral self-control. Lets rethink saying, Thick skin. I go to the dentist. "Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of, but stigma and bias shame us all," he stated. By January 2018, Saunders, whose powerful performance and strong demeanor earned her the nickname Hulk, was so afflicted by depression and anxiety that she said she considered ending her life by driving off a Mississippi highway. So Ive done that all my life when times get stressful. The "Hit Different" songstress has been honest about her own mental health journey and tweeted shortly after the announcement that the hotline, named Good Line, had gotten over 60,000 calls. But she credits nurses in the hospital with nursing her back to health physically and mentally. Additionally, Ms. McKinney was a proud recipient of Mental Health America's highest honor, the Clifford W. Beers Award, presented to a consumer of mental health and/or substance abuse services who best reflects the example set by Beers in his efforts to improve conditions for, and attitudes toward, people with mental illnesses. All those things that I felt. You have to look in the mirror and saybefore you can go or grow into anythingyou have to say you love yourself., In 2011, NFL wide receiver Brandon Marshall was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. The condemnation highlights just how rare Osakas move was for a professional athlete, but it seems young Black athletes are taking control of their mental health and public image in a way never seen before. You know what Im saying? Weve long heard that mental health is health. However, this information was kept private until after her death in 2003. W.E.B. Listen now on theiHeartRadio appor clickHEREto tune in live. Black women are speaking up about their mental health journey and the stigmas around mental health in the Black community. We just have to take our mental health as seriously as we do the physical. Through the project "Mental Health America", Lovato encourages people with mental illness to . Black and African American Communities and Mental Health. There are people who can help, and there is usually light at the end of any tunnel., My thing is to hopefully help make somebody strong enough to say, Alright, let me go process this pain and this trauma so that the rest of my life, emotionally, Im leading and Im loving from a more healed, whole place., Im tackling the myth that African-American women have to be pillars of strength. With love. #BLM #BlackMentalHealthMatters #MentalHealthIsMentalWealth, I think we all need to find a good person to chit chat with and just like we tune up our cars, we need to tune up ourselves, he said. 1. He published over 100 scientific and popular articles. Mental health-wise, Evans has talked about anxiety and ways to overcome anxiety. Here's How to Tell the Difference, 8 Celebrities Who Have Opened Up About Taking Anti-Depressants Or Anxiety Medication, Dealing With Your Abortion Post-Roe When You Live in a Red State. WNBA legend Chamique Holdsclaw suffered from depression, endured a nervous breakdown and even a suicide attempt in the early 2000s while playing for the Washington Mystics and the Los Angeles Sparks, she revealed in her 2012 autobiography Breaking Through: Beating the Odds Shot After Shot., She had kept her mental health struggles a secret for years before baring it all in her book about two years after she retired in 2010. 2023 ESSENCE Communications Inc. All Rights Reserved. She is a pioneer of intersectional psychology, and her work on heterosexism, sexism, and racism has illuminated how different intersecting facets of a person's identity shape their experiences of privilege, oppression, and mental health. Just read: You dont owe anyone years of your life in exchange for the decline of your mental and emotional health., I realized how people end up in the grave. . This month is an opportunity to explore how we can do better for future generations of Black people who have seen their communities left behind in global health for far too long. Taraji P. Henson - The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation In honor of her father, actress Taraji P. Henson established the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation in 2018 to offer free therapy services, and raise awareness about mental health struggles. Here's a look at some Black celebrities' efforts to support mental health help. In an interview with PEOPLE, the former Saved by the Bell stars mother revealed that her daughter was living with bipolar disorder. Thank you, Dr. Nkengasong. Olympic sprinter Noah Lyles, 24, has been a vocal advocate of mental health care, sharing on Twitter that he takes anti-depressantsand sees both a sports and a personal therapist. The tennis icon suffered from depression after an injury and pulmonary embolism led to surgery, which left her on the sidelines for months. Both the pressure of the spotlight and the eventual breakup of the group had a deep impact on Williams and her mental health. Get the latest news 24/7 on The Black Information Network. Ive been in therapy for the last 25 years. You know what Im saying? My brain and my heart are really important to me. She argues that the effects of racism, especially in schools, can have a detrimental effect on students' racial identity formation and emphasizes the urgent need for continued conversations about race. In a 2018 issue of ESSENCE, the GRAMMY-award winning singer got real about her ongoing struggle with depression and how shes been able to work through it, writing: In an interview on The Read podcast, writer, actress and producer Issa Rae opens up about choosing to make therapy a priority, saying: Janelle Monae has been an outspoke advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Phone: 202.887.9040 I didnt know how I got there. She established NAMI-Inglewood to create a place for Black individuals to discuss mental illness. Beyond the scientific breakthrough she made, Gaston dedicated her life and work to improving health care and outcomes for Black communities. Michelle has been an advocate for veterans, service members, and military family members seeking mental health help, as well as a huge advocate for girls and women's health, education, and rights. By signing up you agree to receive content from us. Demi Lovato Grammy-winning singer Demi Lovato (pronouns: they/them/theirs) sparked conversations about mental health during a 2011 ABC News interview. EGOT-winner Viola Davis shared a graphic depicting the impact of racism on mental health, in an Instagram post, she captioned: In a 2022 panel discussion with Senior Writer Candace McDuffie at The Root Institute, actor Courtney B. Vance opened up about how therapy helped him cope with the loss of his father. In 2018, I had my breakdown, Saunders said, adding that navigating life as a Black, queer woman only added to the stress. They have made major breakthroughs, broken down racial barriers, and built trust in health systems that have often failed the Black community. The IDEA says that public schools have to give all students with disabilities . Osakas decision to prioritize her mental health spurred criticism from spectators and even tennis legend Billie Jean King. Brooklyn Beckham and his wife Nicola Peltz Beckham are opening up about their mental health to Selena Gomez . In an announcement for the campaign, she said: Rapper Kendrick Lamar has always been candid about his struggles with mental health, even in his music. Instead of literally stuffing them down with food, maybe its okay for me to express myself. We do not have access to the care necessary to keep our bodies and minds and souls healthy, she said then and sadly, that remains true today. Photo: Larry Crayton/ Unsplash. She consistently tweets about the importance of mental health and was even featured in a PBS minidocumentary titled An Olympic Athlete Takes on Depression., Its worth noting that many athletes who have advocated for mental health care have been women. CONTACT US. Their year's week-long series of events includes participation from organizations such as the White House Maternal Health Council and ACOG, as well as celebrity allies including actress Cherie Johnson and famed hip-hop DJ & producer Spinderella. degree from Johns Hopkins University and her medical doctorate from Howard University in Washington, DC. In 2014, Dr. Eberhardt's work earned her the famous MacArthur "Genius Grant" Fellowship. Im tackling the myth that African-American women have to be pillars of strength. Her Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation works to erase the stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community by connecting them with culturally-competent programs and resources. It exposed existing racial disparities and inequalities in a system that continues to lack acknowledgement, respect, and support for their everyday lives. 320 East 43rd Street, 3rd Floor Kristen Bell in August 2019. This month is also an opportunity to explore how we can do better for future generations of Black people who have seen their communities left behind in global health for far too long. Freda C. Lewis-Hall earned her B.S. In 2011, the rapper told Arizonas ABC 15, that he struggled with bipolar disorder and drug addiction. Dr. Cornely's professional work focused on the development of public health initiatives aimed at reducing healthcare disparities among the chronically underserved. Do not be afraid to go to a therapist or a doctor to make sure everything is fine., I want to live for my daughter, for my family, for my friends, for my fans. Internationally known for her work in the development of a theory of Optimal Psychology; Dr. Myers has conducted trainings in England, South Africa, Ghana, and Jamaica. December 17, 2021. Everyones favorite TV grandma spent years hiding her mental illness before sharing it with the world. In part, that is because she has had to overcome a lot of issues in this regard, which hasn't always been the smoothest process. Support & Education NAMI HelpLine; Publications & Reports. In a new video interview for the Only Murders in the Building star's Wondermind mental . Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page is perhaps one of the most famous alleged black magic practitioners in the world. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. As a man you get a lot of slack for it I dont really subscribe to that. It really helps me deal with stuff., A post shared by Kerry Washington (@kerrywashington). These conversations couldn't be more important as 2020 was a year of reckoning for birthing people due to the disproportionate mental health impact of COVID-19. Her work opened up a conversation around mental health and the issues plaguing minority communities. To chip in, these Black celebrities have served through charity work, launching their own foundations, and amplifying expert and advocate voices in mental health. He passionately advocated for the creation of Black psychology, arguing that applying white psychology to Black people often unfairly created the illusion of Black inferiority, when ultimately it was a reflection of the culturally irrelevant psychological principles being applied. She returned to the University of Mississippi for her senior year, feeling unstoppable, but the high was short-lived. You never know what people are going through, she said. His advocacy, and that of other players, led the NBA to require teams to have at least one full-time licensed mental health professional on staff. "This year's campaign is issuing a Call-to-Action to commit to incorporating black maternal mental health in all areas of maternal health practices, thus changing the current way maternal mental health goes untreated among black birthing people. As calls for global health equity grow louder, Im encouraged that theres a powerful voice centering Black health in the international conversation. The Soul Train creator battled depression for years before taking his own life in 2012. Then you have female athletes like Naomi Osaka, shes one of the most high-profile athletes, said Dr. Caroline M. Brackette, a licensed counselor and professor in Mercer Universitys College of Health Professions. A post shared by Michael B. Jordan (@michaelbjordan), Honestly, therapy, just talking to somebody just helped me out a lot. The singer shared that her depression was caused by years of emotions building up, I think I was just overloaded with everything, with carrying six years of so much.. If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health or substance abuse disorders, reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's national helpline 24/7 at 1 . And they made me realize one thing that I was missing in my life, and that was clarity., A post shared by Brandon Marshall (@bmarshall), Its extremely important thatevery time something comes up, I reach out to someone and let someone in, no matter how hard it is or difficult it is to express those feelings., A post shared by Halle Berry (@halleberry), Ive done therapy on an as-needed basis since I was probably 10 years old. Currently, Dr. Elders is a professor emeritus at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Speak up, share your story, and make a difference. Its well-documented that Black people are grappling with injustice, inequity, and racism all of which impact the extent to which they can lead healthy lives. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Beyonc gave back to the Black community through her philanthropy BEY Good and their COVID-19 relief donations. Gastons research changed the worlds understanding of sickle cell disease and today in the United States, every child is screened for sickle cell disease at birth. Dr. Natalia Kanem currently serves as Executive Director of UNFPA, prior to which she was Deputy Executive Director, and earlier UNFPA Representative in the United Republic of Tanzania from 2014 to 2016. While there, he performed his ground-breaking research on the physical changes to the brains of Alzheimer's patients. This was some of the first scientific data that showed that stereotypes of women, people living in poverty, and racial and ethnic minorities were likely affecting psychiatric diagnoses and helping to maintain the inequities already present in society. The Black-ish actress revealed that she suffers from bipolar disorder and was diagnosed in 1990. I was hesitant to go at first. Black women are 40 times more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. In his case, the therapist metaphor is particularly apt. Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper Kendrick Lamar lent his lyrics from his song "i" from his acclaimed To Pimp a Butterfly album to Kaiser Permanente company to use in a commercial raising awareness about mental health. But it wasnt for me; it was for a lot of people I felt like I owed.. Rihanna's Clara Lionel Foundation supported mental health access through a $15 million pledge to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey's Start Small Initiative. Gucci Mane In 2011, Gucci was committed to a mental facility for mental health treatment and an evaluation after stating that he could not intelligently participate in a probation hearing. She was a family advocate specializing in issues affecting African American women and their children and is a founding member of the National People of Color Consumer/Survivor Network. She deals with the illness everyday, but tries to remember to take care of herself. Celebrities Who Have Struggled With Mental Illness and Depression - Essence Mental illness often goes unchecked because there is still a stigma surrounding mental health, but many. Mental Health Education; Support Groups. Instead she contacted her therapist and decided to put her athletic life on hold to undergo treatment in a mental health facility. Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller was a pioneering African American psychiatrist who made significant contributions to the study of Alzheimer's disease. As a Caribbean woman of African descent, born in Barbados and living the Black experience in America, I know way too many people who have had their lives snatched by aggressive cancers, other non-communicable diseases, and preventable health conditions because of inequity in our global health system. 5 min read May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we must have dialogue. But celebrities like Taraji P. Henson, Courtney B. Vance and Michelle Williams are doing their part to help erase the stigma around mental health. From dismissed medical needs to birthing complications, black women are more likely to experience traumatic births and the mental health consequences that follow. Follow NBCBLK on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Though she sad she had been cured, the Grammy-winning singer once revealed having taken medication for bipolar disorder. Mental Health and Young African Americans: Need for Concern? Encountering his writings for the first time at age 11, Page immersed himself in Aleister Crowley's writings as a teen and young man. Right before I got locked up I had five or six pending cases, I was mad. . Her current research interests comprise the application of that model to a broad range of issues from health and education to business ethics. Both trailblazers in their respective sports, they let Black people everywhere know its OK not to be OK, ushering in a new wave of transparency and openness about mental health in the Black community that could save lives. In 1992, she published "The Politics of Madness" which presented her research on the presence of existing societal inequities in the diagnosis and categorization of psychiatric disorders. I was blessed enough to talk to some super-spiritual people. Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark's dedication and passion for adequate mental health services for all prompted Dr. Clark to open her own agency to provide comprehensive psychological services to the poor, blacks, and other minority children and families. Some have even opened up about their own mental health healing journeys, helping to remove stigma and normalize getting help within the Black community. If you or someone you know needs help, these resources are available: Singer Keri Hilson burst onto the scene in 2009 and seemingly had the world at her feet. Black Americans' contributions to the field of mental health have been long overlooked. Logan Nesson Her experience in college and specifically graduate-level courses helped her realize the shortage of psychological services available to the African American community and other minorities. Photo: Library of Congress. Dr. Maultsby's unique contributions include making emotional self-help a legitimate focus of scientific research and clinical use. Faye Wattleton is an American reproductive rights activist who was the first African American and the youngest president ever elected of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. In honor of Minority Mental Health Month, which is recognized in July, below are some prominent black celebs, from Alicia Keys to Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, talking about how they overcame mental illness. "Racial injustices perpetuated by systems built to keep people safe are exacerbating the coronavirus' mental health impact on individuals and families across the United States," a statement from the Foundation read last summer. She previously earned both her bachelors and masters degrees from Howard University. Taraji P. Henson Having suffered from anxiety and depression, Golden Globe-winner Taraji P. Henson has not only been vocal about her psychological problems but also about destigmatizing mental illness in the Black community. The shift comes at a time when womens athletics are more popular than ever. And just being aware of it. Trained as a psychiatrist, Dr. Lewis-Hall has held an array of leadership roles across the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as in academia, medical research, and direct service provision. | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Essence.com Advertising Terms. The iconic singer suffered from bouts of depression and bipolar disorder throughout her life. My father was an alcoholic and a very abusive one, and my mother knew the value of providing me with the outlet of an unbiased person to talk to. "I believe deeply that the more at peace you are with yourself, the more love and compassion you are able to put out into the world," he told Deadline. Athletes like Biles and Serena Williams are hailed as the GOAT (greatest of all time) in their sports. In Our Own Voice: African-American Stories of Oppression, Survival, and Recovery in Mental Health Systems by Vanessa Jackson, Chapter 3: Mental Health Care for African Americans (Chapter from Mental Health: Culture, Race, and Ethnicity: A Supplement to Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General), Department of Health and Human Services, Pathways to Integrated Health Care: Strategies for African American Communities and Organizations Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health, African American Men and Women's Attitude Toward Mental Illness, Perceptions of Stigma, and Preferred Coping Behaviors by Ward, Wiltshire, Detry, & Brown, 500 Montgomery Street,Suite 820Alexandria, VA. 22314Phone (703) 684.7722Toll Free (800) 969.6642Fax (703) 684.5968. I knew I was drained, but I still tried to push through. Dr. Cornely retired in 1973 as Professor Emeritus in the Department of Community Health and Family Practice of Howard University College of Medicine. Yeezy is reportedly afraid of spiders, which makes sense because there is no reason for anything to have eight legs. Actress Lisa Nicole Carson, best known for her roles in Love Jones and Ally McBeal, opened up to ESSENCE in July 2015 about her struggles with bipolar disorder and her decision to step back from her career to prioritize her mental health, saying: In 2016, artist Kid Cudi took a break from his career to seek help after a battle with depression and suicidal thoughts. There is no shame in speaking out and seeking help. Looking at people like Naomi and all the other athletes who are talking about it, I feel like it will start a snowball effect, Saunders said. Photo: UNFPA. Essence may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. In an essay for Motto, the actress slammed the stereotype that people who suffer from mental illnesses are weak. Inspirational Mental Health Speakers Michael Oher (6 ratings) Daniel Hale Williams performed the first documented, successful pericardium surgery in the United States to repair a wound. In an interview with SELF, the artist talked about how his friends, fans and family (especially his daughter) providing the inspiration he needed to take care of himself at one of the lowest points in his life. Thankfully, I found my way through it., But it is important to not necessarily go [to therapy] because you think somethings wrong, but you should if youre in an industry like this, prioritize it because nobody else will. Although it wasnt the first time Du Bois, a sociologist and civil rights activist, had written on the matter of health and race, this document put this national issue front and center at the UN and made it a global one. Theres a lot more benefits to being open than wed like to think.. Throughout her time as an advocate, Campbell made her way to DC. During the 2019 Black Women in Hollywood event, ESSENCE had the opportunity to honor the incomparable Jenifer Lewis. Bossip Video 1 of 10 Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images Black Celebrity Men Who Spoke On Mental Health In an effort to emphasize the importance of black men's health, iOne has a special #RepresentMensHealth initiative highlighting the importance of well being in African-American men. She founded NAMI-Inglewood in a predominantly Black neighborhood to create a space that was safe for Black people to talk about mental health concerns. New York, NY 10017 December 10, 2021, United Nations Foundation Sueann Tannis I dont know why I wouldnt seek help to have those things be as healthy as my teeth. The singer and Destinys Child member opened up about her battle with depression a few years ago and shared that she felt it was time to let others know about her experience with the illness so that, hopefully, they would feel encouraged to seek help. So when Dr. Natalia Kanem was appointed Executive Director of the UN Fund for Population (UNFPA) in 2017, as a Panamanian of African descent, she brought a unique and essential perspective as a champion not only for sexual and reproductive health and gender equity but also for racial equity. And in a 2015 interview with Glamour, Washington said shes been open about seeing a therapist in hopes that it will help normalize the idea of prioritizing mental health. Learn More NAMI's Federal Advocacy I say that publicly because I think its really important to take the stigma away from mental health. This has led to a significantly reduced use of mental health resources as compared to their white peers. Without groundbreaking research led by Dr. Marilyn Hughes Gaston, sickle cell disease patients could be worse off. Francis Cecil Sumner is another person who gets called "the Father of Black Psychology," because he was the first Black man to earn his Ph.D. in psychology. Dr. James Myers has received numerous honors and awards for excellence in research and scholarship, including being named Distinguished Psychologist by the Association of Black Psychologists; the Bethune/Woodson Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Development of Promotion of Black Studies from the National Council of Black Studies; Oni Award by the International Black Women's Congress; and, the Building to Eternity Award from the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilization, among others. Dr. Landrine frequently applied a public health lens to psychology and psychiatry and argued that the field of psychology's focus on decontextualized individuals is insufficient for understanding overall health. Find out what NAMI is doing on Capitol Hill and how you can become a mental health advocate. Robert Lee Williams, II was the creator of the Black Intelligence Test of Cultural Homogeneity, an intelligence test specifically oriented towards Black experiences, language, and culture. According to Athletes for Hope, an organization that pairs athletes with charitable causes, up to 35 percent of professional athletes will face a mental health crisis. Rheeda Walker, The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health: Navigate an Unequal System . Herman George Canady was a prominent Black clinical and social psychologist. Dr. Cornely was a founder of the National Student Health Association in 1939, president of the Physician's Forum in 1954, and founder and first president of the District of Columbia Public Health Association in 1962. 6 Celebrity Mental Health Advocates (and What They're Up To) People of all ages look up to celebrities and give special attention to their opinions and influence. In other words, the majority of women celebrities who have spoken out about their mental health are white. Photo: U.S. Department of State. She faced a series of post-Olympics setbacks during the 2017 collegiate season, and placed 10th at the Athletics World Championships that year. Hence, they chip away at the longstanding stigma and discomfort around this topic. In 2010, Barrino attempted to take her own life after overdosing on aspirin and sleep pills. 2 of 20 Demi Lovato Kevin Winter/BBMA2020/Getty Images for dcp Demi Lovato's mental health journey hit a very public inflection point when she suffered a heart attack and three strokes after an. I dont know why I wouldnt seek help to have those things be as healthy as my teeth. You cant walk around like a ticking time bomb., The most important thing I got is that everything is connected. Raven Saunders was riding high after the 2016 Rio Olympics. In honor of her father, actress Taraji P. Henson established the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation in 2018 to offer free therapy services, and raise awareness about mental health struggles. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Some have even opened up about . Traditionally women have been more vocal about self care so Im not surprised you see, just as in society, more women speaking out about mental health and wellness in sports.. Shahrzad Elghanayan / NBC News / Getty; Reuters, Raven Saunders her new mini-documentary, An Olympic Athlete Takes on Depression., Naomi Osaka withdraws from Wimbledon for personal time, decision to prioritize her mental health spurred criticism, Athletes should be able to use cannabis to medicate themselves safely, says former NBA player, Team USA athletes beat the odds at Olympic trials. Dr. Kenneth Clark was the first-ever black president of the American Psychological Association. Her research and arguments helped lead some of the first discussions about desegregating American schools. Her dissertation, "The Non-Academic Development of Negro Children in Mixed and Segregated Schools," evaluated the effects of racial inequality and racism on the development of Black children's identity and mental health. His techniques are practical and . I got a good therapist. College of Arts and Sciences Outstanding Teaching Award, a member of the national honor societies of Phi Kappa Phi and Psi Chi, a past president of the Association of Black Psychologists, and Chairman of the Board of Directors for the National Association for the Education of African American Children with Learning Disabilities. He is known nationally and internationally for his creation of the Comer School Development Program in 1968 within Yale Universitys School of Medicine. Dr. Joycelyn Elders was the first African American and the second woman to be sworn in as the Surgeon General of the United States. In her acceptance speech, she encouraged the audience to make caring for their mental health. There is now a sense of agency among professional athletes that we have not seen before with regard to their voices., That urgent focus on mental wellness was recently thrust back into headlines when ShaCarri Richardson, who won the womens 100-meter race at the Olympic trials in June, was barred from competing at the Tokyo Games after testing positive for THC, the chemical in marijuana. She noted that depression and anxiety are some of the most common mental health issues among athletes. The Lemonade singer also partnered with the NAACP to provide rent relief for families doubly impacted back historic winter storms and the pandemic. The hotline also includes meditation audio and other resources. But it wasnt doing it all the way for this, so I knew that this required some special attention. Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum is the author of the renowned book Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria And Other Conversations About Race, one of her many works that focuses on racism and the effect it has on the American education system. Athletes are increasingly taking ownership of their personal narrative and making their own choices about sharing that personal narrative," said LeRoy Reese, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral science at the Morehouse School of Medicine. During the conversation, he told the audience he believes everyone can benefit from therapy, saying: At just 25 years old, tennis player Naomi Osaka does her best to prioritize her mental health, even when her decisions impact her career, including her decision to withdraw from the French Open in 2021 to protect her mental well-being. Brackette said the rise in public mental health advocacy among young Black athletes is a reflection of society at large, where stigma surrounding mental health is slowly diminishing. He graduated from Boston University School of Medicine, which as a homeopathic institution, was open to both African American and women students. Brands and marketers are increasingly investing financially in womens sports, and global TV and sponsorship revenue for womens athletics is expected to surpass $1 billion, according to a report from Deloitte. After experiencing bipolar disorder and an eating disorder, she has become a familiar voice for people with mental illnesses and honest about the difficulties associated with recovery. Dr. Sumner struggled to get his research published because of the color of his skin, but persisted nonetheless and was able to publish several articles. He also helped to provide an understanding of testing environments that were suitable to help Black students succeed. Although retired, Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark served on different advisory boards and was still very active within her community. $6 million gift to support UCLA and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, a statement from the Foundation read last summer, been honest about her own mental health journey, used the lyrics as part of its "Find Your Words" campaign, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Clockwise from top left, Naomi Osaka, Sha'Carri Richardson, Simone Biles and Noah Lyles. Rates of PPD in new & expectant moms have doubled during COVID, with black moms at 2-3x higher risk but are nearly 2X less likely to receive mental health treatment. According to a recent study, 63% of Black people believe that having a mental health condition is a sign of weakness. During her tenure as Surgeon General, Dr. Elders advocated for universal health coverage, comprehensive health education, including sex education in schools. Dr. Greene's work earned her the honor of the Distinguished Publication Award from the Association for Women in Psychology in 2008. The Foundation has partnerships with other mental health organizations, and created scholarships for Black students who are pursuing careers in the mental health field. The Association of Black Psychologists, Inc. She served as Pfizer, Inc.'s Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President until the end of 2018 and as Chief Patient Officer and Executive Vice President during 2019. The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health Quotes Showing 1-5 of 5. Twitter was ablaze earlier this week after R&B singer Kehlani attempted to take her own life. Cision Distribution 888-776-0942 When its thick, nothing can get in but nothing can come out. American Idol alum Fantasia Barrino battled depression for years before a 2010 suicide attempt. The technique of cognitive-behavioral therapy and counseling that Dr. Maultsby created is the first comprehensive, yet short-term, culture and drug-free technique of psychotherapy that produces long-term therapeutic results. She was the first black woman to direct the Bureau of Primary Health Care in the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. Jennifer Eberhardt is an esteemed professor of psychology at Stanford University. And thats what Ive learned just throughout my journey here., As someone who has dealt with depression and anxiety, prioritizing and protecting your mental health is everything. Part of the donations included a $6 million gift to support UCLA and the National Alliance on Mental Illness which provides help in Houston, Texas, New Orleans, Detroit, and NYC. There has been a benign neglect too often of professional athletes physical and mental well-being, Reese said. It is poor women African American women and other minority women who will bear the burden of a restriction of access to safe and legal reproductive services, she told a convening of the National Council of Negro Women in 2008. 4. We focus on empowering Black women to take personal responsibility for our own health and to advocate . The Clarks are best known for the famous Doll Study in which more than 200 Black children participated. But as of today, I had no single wish to see tomorrow. Thankfully, the singer is recovering. Through his work and therapeutic method, Dr. Maultsby explored emotional and behavioral self-management. I can try as much as I can, but doing it all myself, Id end up driving myself insane, circling the same situation and same problem over and over again. Copyright 2023 Mental Health America, Inc. Asian American/Pacific Islander Communities, Arab/Middle Eastern/Muslim/South Asian Communities, In Our Own Voice: African-American Stories of Oppression, Survival, and Recovery in Mental Health Systems, Chapter 3: Mental Health Care for African Americans, Pathways to Integrated Health Care: Strategies for African American Communities and Organizations, African American Men and Women's Attitude Toward Mental Illness, Perceptions of Stigma, and Preferred Coping Behaviors, Infographic about BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Mental Health, Policy Issue: Health Care Disparities Among Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, How Race Matters: What We Can Learn From Mental Health Americas Screening In 2020, Overview of Mental Health Issues in Black and African American Communities, Overview of Mental Health Issues in Native and Indigenous Communities, Overview of Mental Health Issues in Latinx/Hispanic Communities, Informacin Y Materiales De Salud Mental En Espaol, Overview of Mental Health Issues in Asian American/Pacific Islander Communities, Overview of Mental Health Issues in Multiracial Communities, Overview of Mental Health Issues in Arab/Middle Eastern/Muslim/South Asian Communities. Blog Global Health Black Health Matters: Innovators, Researchers, and Advocates Leading The Way. Michelle Obama is the former First Lady of the United States of America. She was also the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration's Voice Awards program which was presented to her for her distinguished leadership and advocacy on behalf of trauma survivors. Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. She placed fifth in the womens shot put, and upon her return, her hometown, Charleston, South Carolina, held a parade celebrating Raven Saunders Day in her honor. We may earn a commission from links on this page. You know, that helps with anxiety, depression all those things. In 1891, Daniel Hale Willams, an African-American doctor opened Provident Hospital, the first medical facility in the U.S. with interracial employees. We have the right to fall, she said. In 2020, she launched a campaign to connect African Americans to free therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic. To chip in, these Black celebrities have served through charity work, launching their own foundations, and amplifying expert and advocate voices in mental health. And in 2022, she was honored for her work with Trevor Projects Suicide Prevention Advocate Award. I do hope that people can relate and understand its O.K. But a less successful sophomore album and a painful breakup left her at a low point. Rosalynn Carter, the former first lady of the United States and wife of former President Jimmy Carter, has dementia, the Carter Center announced on Tuesday. Photo: Lev Radin/ Shutterstock. The staff at Plush Midtown participated in a workshop last January led by mental health advocate Lorenzo Lewis, founder and CEO of Arkansas-based nonprofit The Confess Project.The four barbers, each with a client in his chair, clipped and buzzed away, and a handful of others sat in a semicircle on stools and plush furniture as Lewis gave . Mental illness often goes unchecked because there is still a stigma surrounding mental health, but many celebrities have come forward to openly discuss their battles with depression and mental illness, sparking conversation about the issue. Mental health conditions have long carried a stigma with it, particularly when it comes to the Black community. Ive been meditating since I was 17 years old. COVID-19 Dominated Global Health in 2021. I was sitting in my car, and I knew the gas was coming when I had an image of my mother finding me. Thinking of how her mother would feel is the image that saved her. Overflowing with grace and gratitude, Glenn Close builds a peaceful haven . En vous inscrivant la newsletter, vous consentez la rception de contenus de notre part. Raising awareness remains high on that list. Your hiding could set up a life-or-death situation whereby you are in need and there is no one left to help.". By To chip in, these Black celebrities have served through charity work, launching their own foundations, and amplifying expert and advocate voices in mental health. Thats growth., Its challenging to talk about how youre doing mentally since its an invisible injury people cant see it, so its harder to understand, but I think thats why its so important we feel empowered to open up about it., Mental Health is our silent crisis. Andrew Solomon. He also said he masturbated to Black women being "brutalized." Healy later apologized to Ice Spice, . In addition to being a leader for women in psychology and the LGBTQ+ community, she also owned her own practice in which she provided therapy to LGBTQ+ folks, people living with HIV/AIDS, and other marginalized members of her community. 100+ Leading Mental Health Speakers Mental health speakers and advocates are uniting to raise awareness for the fact that approximately one in five Americans are affected by mental illness each year. Whatever path you need to take to heal, its the best one.. Unfortunately, Dr. Elders only held the position of Surgeon General for 15 months as she was asked to resign. to talk about it. Member Services 888-999-6264. ", For more information on how you can help amplify the movement, head to www.shadesofblueproject.org, #BMMHW2021 #WeDeserveMore #EncouragingBlackJoy #MakeShiftHappenTogether, black-maternal-mental-health-week.png Black Maternal Mental Health Week. Du Bois was one of the founders of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1909. The time is now to make shift happen. Below, we gathered a list of celebrities who have openly discussed and endorsed therapy as a tool to treat mental health issues. Therapy helped me realize that maybe its okay for me to communicate my feelings. In a 2021 essay in Time Magazine, the young star wrote about her decision to focus on her mental health and made an impassioned plea to the media to give athletes space when they need it. Whatever the cause of the growing advocacy, Saunders says shes sure it will continue. , . Team USA established its athlete services division in 2019 to bolster its support services, and athletes can now access mental health resources like therapists, counseling groups and helplines. All . Holdsclaws openness serves as an important precedent for female athletes revealing their mental health struggles. Dr. Cornely was also the first African-American elected as President of the American Public Health Association in 1968. Photo: Klaus Nielsen/ Unsplash. Bill Clinton Brendan McDermid / Reuters Clinton advocated for better mental health policies when he was president, slamming the negative stereotypes surrounding the conditions during a radio address in 1999. Photos: Lindsey Wasson Reuters, Loren Elliott/ Reuters. Ms. McKinney was a consultant and advisor to the Center for Mental Health Services and is well known for her moving presentations to national audiences on issues such as seclusion/restraint, intergenerational family support, and minority issues in public mental health. You get labeled as a quitter with mental health issues like mine, she told The Washington Post. Marilyn Hughes Gaston is a physician and researcher. This has led to a significantly reduced use of mental health resources as compared to their white peers. Dr. Maultsby was the founder of the psychotherapeutic method, rational behavioral therapy. Simone Biles (left) and Naomi Osaka (right) are ushering in a new wave of awareness about mental health in the Black community. Dilan Abeya, a gym enthusiast, fitness model, and influencer, shares his own experiences of maintaining sound mental health via physical and emotional self-care. Their position as role models carries weight and can influence their own communitys views. Andrew Solomon, author of the book The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression. When I ended up not having a good World Championship meet, it sent me further into that hole. So, I made the choice for the first time in my life to go get help for what I didnt understand., panel discussion with Senior Writer Candace McDuffie. So that when youre on the ledge, you have things to say to yourself that will get you off that ledge and past your weakest moments., A post shared by Gabrielle Union-Wade (@gabunion), You need to find a way to talk about the darkest parts of your life. 2 min read Honoring our Ancestors and Pioneers in Black Mental Health Updated: Aug 17, 2020 By: Amira Mensah, Development and Communications Associate When we think of the challenges and obstacles faced by Black/African-American people, we can't help but to think of the ways in which we overcome. In 2014, Dr. Comer received a prestigious nomination by President Barack Obama to serve on the President's Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans. Her research was some of the first work that challenged the widely-held, harmful racial stereotypes held about Black families. Dr. Sumner was accepted into Clark University's doctoral psychology program, but was then drafted to serve in WWI. Beverly Greene is the author of the landmark article "When the Therapist is White and the Patient is Black: Considerations for Psychotherapy in the Feminist Heterosexual and Lesbian Communities." Cameroonion virologist Dr. John Nkengasong named on the 2021 Time 100 and as a modern-day African hero is founding director of the institution leading the effort, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Every emotion is connected and it comes from somewhere. By Boitumelo Masihleho. Professional leagues dont think about how the stress of performing at such a high level impacts an athletes quality of life., Very often nothing prepares you to be a professional athlete. When typing in this field, a list of search results will appear and be automatically updated as you type. Tennis. With July being Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, the focus on birthing people underscores a population of birthing people who continue to be underdiagnosed, underserved, and misrepresented. Demi Lovato. While African leadership in addressing COVID-19 has been extraordinary, the pandemic has also underscored what weve long known to be true: we must urgently reimagine the approach to public health in Africa, he said ahead of the first international Conference on Public Health in Africa in December 2021. And people will go, Well, if the athletes are talking about it, I guess its cool for us to start talking about it, too., "People will see that its not as negative as youd think. That was somewhere I dont ever want to go again., I say that publicly because I think its really important to take the stigma away from mental health My brain and my heart are really important to me. She also serves on the Executive Committee of the Clinical Trials Transformation Initiative and on numerous other boards, including those of Harvard Medical School, The Institute of Medicine's Forum on Drug Discovery, Development, and Translation, and Save the Children. BIN: Black Information Network is the first and only 24x7 comprehensive national audio Black News service dedicated to providing an objective, accurate and trusted source of continual news coverage with a Black voice and perspective. She was also a founding member of Chicago's Gay Liberation Front. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health condition, check out MyTherapist to learn more about your options, including options for online therapy. California Black Women's Health Project (CABWHP) is the only statewide, non-profit organization that is solely committed to improving the health of California's 1.2 million Black women and girls through advocacy, education, outreach and policy. Just some of the champions have been highlighted here but we know there are countless others defending the health of Black people globally. So when Black celebrities step up to share their mental health struggles and their decision to go to therapy, it can have a huge impact. 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