What is BIPOC Mental Health Month?
The President and CEO of Mental Health America said this about BIPOC Mental Health Month:
"Despite the historical injustices faced by Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC), the good news is that there are abundant reasons for hope. BIPOC communities have time and again demonstrated strength, resilience, and ingenuity in the face of adversity. They have also been consistently on the front lines of equitable social change and progress. This month’s namesake, Bebe Moore Campbell, is just one powerful example of a leader who paved the way in advocating on behalf of her community’s mental health, and as such we are honored to commemorate Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month each July. A trailblazer, advocate, and extensive author, Moore Campbell used her work to explore themes of living with mental health conditions and how it intersects with racial identity, family dynamics and other critical aspects of life. Building upon her devotion to the mental well-being of minoritized communities, we continue to advance her vision for a better future for people of all backgrounds."
Photograph by MVMC; Shinzen Friendship Garden; July 2023
(From the Mental Health America's BIPOC Mental Health Month Toolkit 2024)
Micki's Paper Floor; 2021 located at Printworks - the Printmaking Studio at the Oval Park
Reducing the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health:
Like our No Stigma Speakers Buearu organizations all over are trying to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and finding mental health resources. BIPOC Mental Health Month is also a chance for us to practice tools used in mental wellness.
We have the opportunity at places like My Voice Media Center and organizations in Tulare County centered on mental wellness to reduce stigma. We set an example, create art together, and become a team, all centered on focusing on our mental health, instead of negative thoughts and emotions.
Ways to reduce stigma:
Create a work of art about your race or culture
Get Social
Join My Voice or another wellness center
Bring a friend to My Voice
Write a song about your race or culture
Talk to someone about your mental health
Be kind to someone in need
From Wix Illustrations
From Mental Health America's BIPOC Mental Health Month Toolkit:
Navigating Stigma/Cultural Differences in BIPOC Communities
• Many BIPOC individuals face internal and external judgment regarding their mental health.
• Whether it’s cultural beliefs, fear of judgment, or lack of access to information and resources, stigma can manifest itself in many ways. It can look different based on culture, family values, and community views.
• Mental health struggles can be viewed as personal failures or weaknesses in some communities, which makes seeking help more difficult.
• Breaking the silence around mental health is crucial for healing.
• Open and honest conversations, while respecting cultural beliefs, can break down barriers and prioritize mental health. Generational Differences
• Beliefs about mental health are often influenced by generational differences.
• Each generation has unique experiences that have shaped their mental health and wisdom to share when it comes to taking care of their own well-being.
• Starting conversations about mental health may feel challenging, but these conversations can bridge generational gaps and promote healing in individuals and communities. Talking About Your Mental Health
Talking About Mental Health
• In BIPOC communities, there is often a history of overcoming adversity which can make talking about mental health struggles uncomfortable, but it’s okay to need help.
• Sharing your mental health story takes strength and can help others feel understood and empowered to take action.
• Listening to and learning from BIPOC stories can increase awareness and promote conversations about mental health.Seeking Support
Seeking Support
• Taking the first steps can feel hard, but addressing and improving your own mental health has an impact on the wellness of the community at large.
• Therapy can be beneficial for anyone, and finding a provider who looks like you may help you feel more understood.
• Discussions about mental health don’t have to happen only with professionals; they can take place in the settings and with the people that make you feel the most comfortable.
• Changing where and how we talk about mental health can foster support and healing in BIPOC communities.
To access the full BIPOC Toolkit please visit:
Mental Health America; https://mhanational.org/bipoc/mental-health-toolkit
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