My Recent Experience with Discussing Mental Health in Communities of Color

Revelations about Mental Health

This week has been a growing week in my knowledge about mental health. At the beginning of this week, my friend opened up in a group chat that they received a mental health diagnosis. At first, I thought I would feel surprised, but I actual heard myself say Finally, they have sought out advice on the changes they were feeling internally. To provide a bit of background, over the past 6 months I had seen a shift in my friend. I kept asking them during conversations, have you had conversations with others about how you are feeling? As my friend experienced a lot of transitions in the past 8 months, I noticed a shift in their mannerisms, our conversations and their outlook on life. My previous education in Social Work, fortunately helped me to recognize the signs. After the friend shared their thoughts in the group chat, other people were unsure of what to do. In efforts to offer support, people said what they thought would be best to say at the time, however it was not received in the same matter. I found myself having a lot of offline conversations with my friends in the group chat to help them understand that receiving a mental health diagnosis can be jarring and what terminology is appropriate to use. As well as allowing them to share how they felt and questions about how they can be supportive.

In light of the this information and reaching out to this friend individually. I have been reminded of how I have supported my friends in the past who have or are currently experiencing mental health challenges. I have taken a friend to a mental health facility and helped support friends who were having suicidal thoughts. It is never easy to hear that your friend is experiencing mental health challenges and working to remain aware of what is the best thing or words to say. I share this story with the purpose of saying that talking about mental health in communities of color can be challenging. Finding a place to connect with a support system is important and remember that it can be a growing/learning experience for everyone involved. I would not be honest, if I didnt say that I felt a mix of relief and concern in the moment. As I know that the road to adjustment after diagnosis can be filled with many triumphs and challenges. I hope that sharing my story will help people who serve as a supportive friend or loved one experiencing mental health and emotional well-being challenges, a bit of solace that our support is needed and appreciated. For those recently diagnosed or putting their best foot forward everyday, I want you to know that I see you and respect your daily strength.

Thanks for reading

Kimson

#ypoc #mentalhealth #letstalk