This is ironically #minoritymentalhealthawarenessmonth, and unfortunately, singer and reality Star Tamar Braxton allegedly attempted suicide this past Thursday. Tamar who’s 43, was found unresponsive in her room at the Ritz-Carlton in downtown Los Angeles.
After speaking to Tamar, reality star and friend Nene Leakes wrote on instagram, “When you are a strong person, you manage stress differently! A lot of strong people cry in the dark and hurt alone.”
In this bonus episode, I discusses how strong Black women struggle too. Research shows that African Americans are highly likely to struggle with emotional distress but least likely to seek help.
Black women in particular are expected to possess unlimited strength and resilience. This expectation puts immense pressure on her to uphold the “Strong Black Woman” title pretending we’re superhuman and it’s killing us.
I personally know this too be true. So, For any woman listening who’s holding on to her superwoman cape, I encourage you to throw it off! You are human first. You are worthy and you deserve care.
Take some time to breath in and breath out. There is power in breath. It is central to many spiritual and mindfulness practices as a life source vital for centering and healing.
Now, how do we make it easier for our strong friends who may be secretly struggling?
Here are 4 Caring Calls-to-Action that you can do now:
Remove the negative stigma of being crazy because someone is struggling mentally or emotionally. Just like it’s healthy to take care of our bodies, it’s healthy to take care of our minds
Create a save space letting them know it’s okay not to be okay sometimes. This can be demonstrated by being vulnerable enough to share your own struggles.
Asking for help doesn’t make you weak, it makes you wise. Be intentional about lifting the load of the strong women in your life.
Finally, if you or someone in your life is struggling with depression go and see a therapist and if there are thoughts about suicide call 1-800-273-8255.
For more content like this check out the Superpowher podcast.