Recently, actress Taraji P. Henson launched her new Facebook Watch show focusing on raising awareness about mental health. Henson, along with best friend and mental health nonprofit leader Tracie Jade, co-host the series “Peace of Mind with Taraji,” which premiered Dec. 14, 2020. Henson and Jade interview everyday people, experts and celebrities about mental health in the Black community.
Among us, therapy has long been that taboo word associated with being “crazy.” While the underlining consequences of deteriorating mental health are vast, your only alternative was to pretend that everything was OK. Mental health determines an individual’s overall well-being, including how they handle stress, relate to others and, subsequently, make choices.
During times of uncertainty, mental health care is vital. Here are my five reasons to consider seeing a therapist:
1. The inability to control your emotions. While we all feel anxious, sad or angry at times, you cannot get a handle on it.
2. A decrease in productivity at work. You’re struggling with attention to detail, concentration and motivation.
3. Disruption in sleep or appetite. You’re experiencing restless sleep, and your desire to eat has taken a backseat.
4. Lack of building or maintaining relationships. You’ve pulled away from others and prefer to be alone.
5. Your physical health has taken a hit. You’re battling constant headaches, a weaker immune system and fatigue.
Don’t call yourself a “strong Black woman.” You’re human and need to recognize those times when being vulnerable is a positive, not a negative.
Anissa D. Blair is an Atlanta-based author and blogger with a passion for writing and being a mother and wife. In her blog, “Straight, No Chaser,” she represents everyday women “just trying to cope doing average s—” and covers all topics — from the good, the bad, and the ugly of navigating through life’s obstacles and roadblocks, to building and keeping successful relationships while trying to maintain your sanity. No taboo topics here. You can read her work at rollingout.com/anissa/ and follow her on social media @anissadblair on Instagram, @anissablair on Facebook, and Blended In Love on YouTube.
