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MENTAL WELLNESS MOMENT SCROLL DOWN FOR THE LATEST EDITION OF THE MWM NEWSLETTER

Black History Month, Social Injustice, and Mental Health

For many of us, Black History Month comes with mixed emotions, such as freedom, inspiration, and optimism; however, these feelings are intertwined with emotions like betrayal, disappointment, and persecution. This is the meeting ground between pride and let down: feeling proud of where “we’ve come from” to quickly being confronted with the let down of “yet so far we need to go.” This often causes conflict within us. This conflict could show up as a lack of recognition for the significance of Black History Month, coupled with a sense of numbness to the social injustices we are experiencing today.

It is important to consider the strides that we have made as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) and non-BIPOC together toward making a more just world. At the same time, we must figure out the best way to deal with exposure to recent painful events. We must be able to recognize how we can respond to tragic events and how communities can support each other. Through these painful events, people came together, they discovered their personal sense of agency, and they sought support. We can use these same tools, as summarized in the article “Managing the Mental Health Effects of Social Media,” to cope with the ongoing stream of painful events we observe in person and in the media. As we are constantly bombarded with images of injustice and pain, it is crucial to engage our families and children in dialogue about their feelings, and communicate our thoughts and emotions with close friends, in journaling, or with a therapist.

It is just as important to recognize Black History Month, to celebrate those who came before us, and to understand that without their triumphs we would not be where we are today. Take time to educate yourself, your family, and children. 2023 Black History Month’s theme is “Black Resistance.” Make time to learn something new and/or to empower you to work through your emotional conflict.

Please contact your ASA/ADON for resources or complete a Student Support Counselor Referral if you are experiencing unmanageable mental health symptoms and/or experiencing unsafe conditions that are affecting your academic success. Your Student Support Counselor will be able to assess your symptoms and get you the help that you need.

Please attend Open Consultation hours available on Thursdays 10am-12pm/6pm-8pm using the link below.

(You do not need a referral form completed for Open Consultation)

YOU ARE NOT ALONE. WE ARE HERE FOR YOU.

Watch the video below to learn about our referral process to get resources and support.

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