Mental Health Matters
As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to an end; I want you to know that it is okay to not be okay. For a long time, I used to feel guilty for not being okay. Context is everything. I grew up in Miami, Florida. I went to amazing schools; have worked at globally recognised companies; and live abroad. So how can I not be okay? The truth is that life is challenging and it doesn’t matter who you are; you can and will face challenges. I was embarrassed to share my concerns with my parents who immigrated to the United States from Jamaica and were self made. Not to mention my mom who was a critical nurse literally faced life and death everyday so I would minimise my problems. Fortunately, I had a friend who had no problem telling me that it is okay to get help and to stop trying to be “strong” 24/7. I hope to use all the platforms that I have access to; to promote well being and to encourage courageous conversations. If you have not checked out my podcast, Race2Rise. We have recorded a number of episodes that cover mental health especially in the black community. Here are the top episodes to listen to and they can be found on Spotify, Apple Podcast (search Race2Rise):
Pulse Check
Out of the Blue
Mental Health Matters
It’s okay to not be okay
Remember that your mental health is not static and there may be times that you may need help but that is okay. Just make sure that you take care of all elements of your health including your mental well-being.
