LET'S CREATE A SAFE SPACE

-

 

As a member of the African American community, I often felt that mental health was a subject not openly discussed or accepted. Growing up in the Black Church, I was taught to have faith and pray away any mental health issues that may arise. While prayer is an integral part of the healing process, it is not a substitute for professional help. It is paramount that we recognize that mental health does not discriminate and that the black church and African American community can and should strive to provide a safe and supportive environment for those struggling with mental health issues.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 5 African Americans experience mental health conditions. That’s 20% of our community! It’s time we recognize that mental health is a real issue in our community and that it’s ok to talk about it. We must break through the stigma surrounding mental health in the African American community and create a safe space for those struggling with mental health.

We have the power to help our brothers and sisters who are suffering from mental health issues. Whether it’s through providing support, offering resources, or simply being a listening ear, we can make a difference. Through open and honest dialogue, we can create a safe and supportive environment for those who need it most.

Let’s work together to ensure that no more Black lives are lost to mental health. Let’s create a safe space for those struggling to talk about what they’re going through and provide the support they need. Let’s break the stigma surrounding mental health in the African American community and start the conversation today. Together, we can make a difference.

If you are ready to bring H.O.P.E. to your congregation and community, contact H.O.P.E. today!

www.authurhenry.com

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

EMBRACING SECOND CHANCES

-
Image
In the journey of life, we all encounter obstacles, setbacks, and moments of darkness.  For some, these challenges can manifest in the form of mental health struggles, casting a shadow over their daily existence.  However, amidst the shadows, there exists a glimmer of hope—a chance for redemption, renewal, and a fresh start. Second chances are often celebrated in tales of triumph over adversity.  Whether it's a character in a novel overcoming their past mistakes or a real-life individual rising above their circumstances, the concept of redemption resonates deeply within us.  But what about those who are grappling with mental illness?  How do we extend second chances to individuals whose struggles may not be immediately visible or easily understood? The truth is, everyone deserves a second chance, regardless of their mental health status.  Mental illness does not define a person, nor does it dictate their worth or potential.  Yet, stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health
Read more

EMBRACING YOUR UNIQUE MELODY

-
Image
  In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often forget to pause and truly listen.  We're surrounded by a cacophony of noises, from the buzzing of technology to the hum of traffic, drowning out the symphony of nature and the subtle melodies of our own souls.  Yet, amidst this chaos, there exists a profound opportunity – an opportunity to sit, to listen, and to discover the unique sound that resides within each of us. Imagine yourself on a quiet morning, sitting amidst the serene beauty of nature.  The air is crisp, the leaves rustle gently, and the birds sing their sweet melodies.  It's in moments like these that we have the chance to tune in, not only to the external world but also to the whispers of our inner selves. As I sit and listen to the birds singing or music playing, I can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder.  Each note, each chirp, seems to carry its own story, its own essence.  And yet, amidst this diversity, there is harmony – a reminder that even
Read more

GOD'S PERSPECTIVE ON FOMO

-
Image
From God's perspective, every soul's journey is a part of a grand tapestry—a divine plan that unfolds in perfect harmony.  While humans may grapple with the fear of missing out on opportunities, connections, or experiences, God sees the intricate interplay of events, lessons, and growth that each individual soul needs. God operates outside the constraints of human time.  What may seem like a missed opportunity or a delay from our limited perspective is a part of the divine timing orchestrated by the Creator.  Trusting in this divine timing allows us to surrender our fears and anxieties, knowing that God's plan is always in motion. The Fear of Missing Out often stems from a desire for external validation or material experiences.  From God's perspective, true fulfillment lies in the spiritual connection between the Creator and His creation.  Instead of chasing temporal pleasures, God invites us to find joy and contentment in the everlasting bond between our souls and the
Read more