Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall well-being | Let’s talk Self-care and Therapy
Mental health is often overlooked and stigmatized in society, especially if you grew up in the Black community or church.
Most of us are still dealing with the ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and other stressors. So what to do with the weight of the 2020s? Self-care and therapy.
Self-care is just taking care of yourself
Self-care is any activity we engage in to care for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It can be as simple as taking a relaxing bath, walking in nature, praying, or doing an activity you enjoy to increase your good vibes (even as minor as a pedicure).
It allows us to take a break from our busy lives and focus on ourselves. Even if just for a brief moment.
Self-care isn’t a one size fits all strategy.
For working moms, sometimes the best self-care is simple, like taking a solo shower, washing your face, and putting on clean, vomit-free pajamas (a full list of self-care tips for moms here). It can do wonders toward refreshing your body and mind by reducing stress and anxiety and improving your overall mood and well-being.
For someone else, 30 minutes of peace to read, unwind at the gym or watch a good show/film uninterrupted is sufficient. Because our lives aren’t the same, our self-care won’t look the same either.
Therapy: It’s okay to ask for help
Therapy is a professional service a licensed mental health professional provides to help people overcome emotional and mental health challenges.
Therapy can effectively treat mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. It can also help individuals deal with difficult life transitions, trauma, family problems, relationships, death, birth, and more.
There are many different types of therapy; if you feel so inclined, there is even biblical counseling. Each type of therapy has its unique approach and can be tailored to meet the client’s needs.
It’s okay to ask for help. Therapy is not a sin. It does not mean you are faithless or don’t believe in God. Contrary to popular belief, therapists are not there to administer prescriptions.
Therapists provide an unbiased ear and act as a springboard for your thoughts and feelings.
Some people are carrying trauma and bitterness from decades ago. Who does that hurt? Only them and the ones they love.
Prayer is powerful. But many a saved person has committed suicide, hurt people, lived beneath their potential, struggled day in, day-out, cried soon as service ended, or was angry come Monday morning. That’s because they need additional help from people God has equipped with the knowledge to do so.
Psychiatry is different from therapy. Psychiatrists may prescribe medication for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and major depressive disorder.
Many church folks will disagree, but you can be saved and clinically depressed at the same time. Sorry, not sorry.
And for women, postpartum depression (PPD) is NOT a spirit; it’s a condition, and you need to feel safe and supported in seeking help.
Therapy vs. the Black Church
Historically, there has been a stigma against seeking mental health treatment within the Christian community. There is this belief that we should be able to overcome all of our challenges and struggles with scripture and prayer.
Here’s the thing, if you have Cancer, the church is okay with you seeking chemotherapy/professional treatment. Does that mean they don’t believe that God is a healer? No. They pray and ask God to be healed using the tools the doctors recommend.
It is the same with mental health. The mind and heart are heavy and unwell. Therapists can provide the tools to cope, heal, handle, and resolve those issues. Here’s where faith enters the picture: a person can pray for guidance in choosing the right therapist and ask for wisdom to receive the advice given.
Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed about getting therapy, but it’s important to remember that it takes courage to reach out and is a brave step toward healing.
Christian therapists exist, and they use scriptures to reinforce the discussions. Here’s the thing, we often pick our physicians based on insurance coverage, location, and specialty rather than their belief systems. Luckily, in therapy, you can choose who you want based on your belief system, which makes it a great option.
How do I find a therapist? How much does therapy cost?
Most insurances have a section on their website to search in-network for treatment, including therapy. Searching this way can keep costs low, with copays ranging between $25-50 per session.
- There are numerous online-therapy sites that are affordable and easy to use, like BetterHelp.com, ayanatherapy.com, therapyforblackgirls.com and talkspace.com. Finding the right one for you is easier than ever. Other suggested sites include Amwell, Teladoc and MDLive.
Therapy can be a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and work towards positive change.
In addition to self-care and therapy, here are other ways to maintain good mental health:
- Praying and connecting with God
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting enough sleep
- Exercising regularly
- Staying connected with friends and family
These are easier said than done for adults with hectic schedules, but you’ll feel better by trying at least one of these things guaranteed.
Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Self-care and therapy are powerful tools that can help you to improve your overall well-being and live a happier, healthier life. If you’re struggling with mental health challenges, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
For Immediate Help
If you or someone you know is struggling, in emotional distress or crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.Â
If you need support, but are not in crisis, consider contacting a warmline. Warmlines offer a place to call when you just need to talk to someone. Find a warmline at mhanational.org/warmlines.