Finding Strength and Inspiration: A Journey to Embrace Your Mental Health as an African American

You’re searching for someone who looks like you, someone who you can relate to and who understands the unique challenges that come with being an African American and managing mental health. You want to find someone who has overcome these challenges and can be a source of inspiration for you.

As you look through books, magazines, and social media, you see countless stories about mental health, but not many that feature people who look like you. Yes, it’s a frustrating feeling, but let me end your agony. In honor of Black History Month, let me share with you a few African American trailblazers who have left a lasting impact on the mental health community.

1. Dr. Frances Cress Welsing

Dr. Frances Cress Welsing was a psychiatrist and writer who was known for her work on the psychology of racism. She believed that racism was a disease that was rooted in the collective unconscious of white people and that it was essential to address these unconscious fears in order to promote healing and equity. Throughout her career, Dr. Welsing was a vocal advocate for mental health and worked to raise awareness about the importance of addressing the root causes of mental health issues, including systemic racism. Her work remains relevant today as society continues to grapple with the ongoing effects of institutionalized racism.

2. Dr. Alvin Poussaint

Dr. Alvin Poussaint is a psychiatrist and author who is known for his work on race and mental health. He was a pioneer in the field of cultural competence in mental health. He worked to ensure that mental health care providers were better equipped to serve the needs of diverse populations. Throughout his career, Dr. Poussaint has been an advocate for mental health equity and has been involved in numerous initiatives aimed at reducing disparities in access to care. He continues to be a leading voice in the mental health community, advocating for policies and practices that promote equity and justice for all.

3. Francis Cecil Sumner, Ph.D.

Francis Cecil Sumner, Ph.D. made history as the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in Psychology in the United States. He fought for equality and fairness in education through his work. As a psychology professor at Howard University, he played an integral role in establishing the department and becoming its head. Many credit him with paving the way for other Black psychologists to succeed.

These trailblazers have made a lasting impact on the mental health community and have helped to advance our understanding of the importance of mental health and well-being. By raising awareness about the issues facing African Americans and working to promote equity in access to care, they have paved the way for future generations to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. 

It gives you hope and encouragement just by reading about these inspiring people. It makes you realize that you too can overcome your mental health struggles and make a difference in the world. If you think about it, you are not alone in your journey, and others have faced similar challenges and overcome them.

So keep searching for inspiration and never give up hope. You will find the strength and resilience within you to overcome any obstacle, just like these African American mental health advocates who have come before you.

Shirley Therapeutic and Consulting Services, LLC, is a diverse therapy clinic that can meet the needs of anyone. If you’d like to talk about your mental health, feel free to message us. In case of emergency or thoughts of suicide, please click on this link: https://www.sprc.org/states/georgia

References:

Alvin Poussaint, psychiatrist born. African American Registry. (2021, November 11). Retrieved February 2, 2023, from https://aaregistry.org/story/alvin-poussaint-socialpsychiatrist-born/

Bryan, contributed by: E. (2019, August 4). Frances Cress Welsing (1935–2016) •. •. Retrieved February 2, 2023, from https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/welsing-frances-cress-1935-2016/

(2021, February 3). Francis Cecil Sumner. Rwenshaun L. Miller. Retrieved February 2, 2023, from https://www.rwenshaun.com/bwbt/francis-cecil-sumner