Honoring Black History Month: A Celebration of Resilience and Mental
Well-Being

By: Elishia Jennings, LSW

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the incredible contributions of Black individuals throughout history, but it is also an opportunity to acknowledge the resilience and mental health journeys of the Black community. From historical injustices to present-day imbalances in mental health care, Black Americans have navigated unique challenges while clinging to strength, healing, and empowerment. Figures like Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark, whose research on self-perception in Black children was instrumental in Brown v. Board of Education, and Bebe Moore Campbell, an advocate for mental health awareness in communities of color, remind us that mental well-being is an essential part of the Black experience (American Psychological Association, 2021).

Despite cultural stereotypes and barriers, Black communities have long embraced collective healing through spirituality, music, storytelling, and activism. The Harlem Renaissance, for instance, was not only a cultural revolution but also a form of emotional liberation, where artists like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston explored themes of identity, struggle, and triumph. Today, therapy, mindfulness, and community care are gaining momentum, with organizations like Therapy for Black Girls and Black Men Heal providing culturally competent mental health support (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2023).
As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s continue advocating for mental health equity and self-care within the Black community. Whether it’s honoring the legacies of historical figures, engaging in open conversations about mental wellness, or supporting Black-led mental health initiatives, every action counts. By embracing both the struggles and victories of Black history, we foster a future where mental health is prioritized, stigma is dismantled, and resilience shines through.

References:
American Psychological Association. (2021). Psychologists’ contributions to social justice and mental health advocacy. Retrieved from www.apa.org
National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2023). Addressing mental health disparities in Black communities. Retrieved from www.nami.org