This article traces the historical roots of stigma, profiles groundbreaking community‑based approaches, and celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month by spotlighting events that unite Black communities in dialogue, art, and healing.
For centuries, mental illness has woven itself into the fabric of human history, prompting us to ponder why it continues to exist in our society. Evolutionary theory suggests that if these conditions didn’t offer any survival benefits, natural selection would have eliminated them.
Dr. Pamela Kennebrew, is redefining what leadership looks like in health, education, and community healing. As Chair of the Human Services Department at Lincoln University and President-Elect of the Delaware Valley Association of Black Psychologists, her work intersects economic justice, adult education, mental health, and Black women’s wellness.
Philadelphia (PA)– In late 2022, the Philadelphia Police Department launched a Crisis Intervention Response Team (CIRT), pairing officers with mental health clinicians to respond to 911 calls with empathy and patience rather than urgency and enforcement
Despite the growing awareness of autism, people still have preconceived ideas about it, particularly in Black communities where stigma, lack of awareness, and disparities in healthcare access create barriers to diagnosis and support.
The truth is, being a strong Black woman is not always a badge of honor. You do not have to bear the burden alone.
So, when it comes to charity, they are founded on love for humanity; for Black communities, love manifests as an ability for collective caring. The roots of giving extend back centuries, two millennia even, dating back to pre-colonial African traditions.
Let’s take a moment to talk about wellness and fitness trends, but not just the usual gym or diet plans. Instead, imagine drawing from the rich and deeply rooted practices of African cultures, which hold centuries of wisdom in healing, movement, and living in harmony with nature.
In recent years, there’s been a dramatic and profoundly significant movement among people of African descent to reconnect with their ancestral spiritual practices. And no, this isn’t just some fad like avocado toast or TikTok dances.
“Staying committed to your New Year goals is less about sheer willpower and more about adopting proven strategies rooted in psychology. By understanding how your mind works, you can overcome common pitfalls like procrastination, loss of motivation, or unrealistic expectations. “
