Are You Really Okay?

As we all are probably aware, mental health is becoming more and more of a topic these days. As I type this I am thinking "finally" we are beginning to have this conversation that has been shunned for many years. It is not very typical that we talk about things such as mental health concerns(especially in the African American culture). Lately the topic has become widespread, especially since the antics of Kanye and the suicides of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain. It is clear that money definitely isn't everything. As African Americans, we are told to pray and it will be okay. While that is partially true, we have to also talk to someone other than God. Battling things alone can be very detrimental. Find someone to talk to. There is no weakness in seeking help. It is actually a show of strength. There are days when I may not have the answers and I have learned over time IT'S OKAY! There is only one me. Staying empowered with your true self is also important.

The consensus is that mental health may be a common life experience - everyone is battling something. It may not be as intense but the ideology is that we all have things that may cause some sense of depression, anxiety, etc. It could be work, family, lack, etc. It is totally okay to let someone know "actually, I am not fine." If you are not okay, guess what? Most of the people on your timeline aren't either. Talk to someone, seek confidential help. While it's not easy to sometimes be transparent, it could end up saving your life.

With Love,

Krissy