Anxiety never sleeps. I still struggle with insomnia at
times. I took a recent psychology class to educate me more about my struggles
so that I may be beneficial to myself and others. In October, I was diagnosed with severe
depression, anxiety and PTSD. The statistics that I was unaware of prior to educating myself, especially the one that likely affects me, were mind blowing. Studies have shown that being an
African American woman puts me at a 20% greater risk for depression and
anxiety. I suffered in silence, “being strong”, long enough. If the burden gets
too much to carry, ask for a hand. I started this blog in November to bring
awareness to mental and emotional health. This topic is near and dear to my
heart.
Failure is an “illusion” and the
idea you can’t have a fresh start will keep you broken and in a place of
sadness. To fully understand how depression and anxiety affects women of color,
we must first take a step back and see how we are “perceived”. Research and history tell us that three basic images exist-the Strong Black Woman, the Angry Black Woman, and the Jezebel/Video Vixen. These images
affect how other people see Black women and how they see themselves. They also
play a role in the development and maintenance of anxiety. (https://adaa.org/learn-from-us/from-the-experts/blog-posts/consumer/be-female-anxious-and-black)
These perceptions can kiss my ass,
excuse my language. The Black Woman is LEGENDARY. We are irreplaceable jewels
of society. Not only in the present day. Maya Angelou, Wilma Rudolph, Ruby Dee,
Harriet Tubman, Madam C. J. Walker, Shirley Chisholm and many more down to my
recent day favs from Michelle Obama to Oprah and EVERY BLACK GRANDMOTHER. Shout
out to MY grands Charline, who gratefully and gracefully still shares her
wisdom with me on a regular basis and Ella Mae, may her soul rest in peace.
In schools, in the workplace, in
professional settings and just walking down the street we often find ourselves
struggling with anxiety. We are not crazy, shame on those who judge us for
being brave to speak up and offer to help others in need. I will continue to
educate myself and others about the lack of information and misunderstanding
about mental health in the African American community. I have learned after recent
trauma the importance of seeking help if needed. I also value my small support
circle of girlfriends who I will soon reveal in a future blog. Sometimes
outside of seeking help, a HEALTHY INTERVENTION may be needed. Some may prefer emotional
support versus medical support. To my circle, you know who you are, thank you
for listening to me, wiping my tears, constantly encouraging me and pushing me
towards healing. I am forever grateful. To my men of color, love support and
embrace the black woman.
Jasi
