Have you ever felt like you were drowning, but everyone around you expected you to tread water with a smile? As a Black woman, I’ve often felt this pressure – the pressure to be strong, to be resilient, to never show weakness. But what happens when that pressure becomes unbearable? What happens when the weight of societal expectations, coupled with the unique challenges we face as Black women, starts to take a toll on our mental health?

This is the reality for many Black women. We often face systemic barriers, microaggressions, and the constant burden of proving ourselves in a world that often overlooks our needs. These experiences can contribute to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges within our community.

My name is Nayome Gilliard, and I’m on a mission to change this narrative. I’m a woman of color with a deep passion for mental health, particularly within the Black women’s community. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and am currently pursuing a Master’s in Psychology. My ultimate goal is to become a Mental Health Program Manager, specifically focusing on developing programs that cater to the unique needs of Black women.

My journey towards mental health advocacy began with personal struggles. For years, I grappled with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, feeling overwhelmed and constantly on the verge of burnout. I felt isolated, ashamed, and like I was the only one struggling.

But I’m not alone. Studies have shown that Black women are significantly more likely to experience mental health challenges compared to other populations, yet we often face barriers to accessing quality mental healthcare. This lack of access, coupled with the stigma surrounding mental health within our community, can have devastating consequences.

That’s why I’m creating this blog. I believe that open and honest conversations about mental health are crucial for breaking down barriers and reducing stigma. I want to create a safe space where Black women can share their experiences, find support, and learn valuable coping mechanisms.

Through this platform, I will:

• Share personal stories and insights: I’ll openly discuss my own mental health journey, including my experiences with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, offering a glimpse into the challenges I’ve faced and the strategies that have helped me on the path to healing.
• Provide evidence-based information: I’ll share research and statistics related to mental health in the Black women’s community, empowering you with knowledge and understanding.
• Offer practical self-care tips: I’ll explore various self-care practices, including mindfulness techniques, stress management strategies, and healthy lifestyle habits.
• Highlight resources and support systems: I’ll connect you with mental health professionals, support groups, and community organizations that specialize in serving Black women.
• Amplify the voices of other Black women: I’ll feature guest posts from other Black women who are passionate about mental health, sharing their unique perspectives and experiences.

I invite you to join me on this journey towards mental wellness. Share your thoughts, experiences, and questions in the comments section below. Let’s build a community of support and understanding where Black women can thrive.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog to receive updates on new posts and resources.

Warmly,

Nayome Gilliard