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Pretty much everyone struggles with mental health at one point or another.
It’s easy to think that certain issues, like depression, only affect women and not men, or only affect white people and not people of color, but that just isn’t true.
There’s more that unites us than divides us, and mental health is one of those things.
Depression doesn’t discriminate, it can hit anyone of any race, gender, or background.
Here, 10 black women and men talk candidly about their own depression.
1. Depression can have many causes
In the age of Black Lives Matter, I can only imagine how difficult this must be.
Image credit: Whisper
2. It’s one more thing on top of everything else
Life was already hard enough, and depression just makes it harder.
Image credit: Whisper
3. Even your own family deny it’s a thing
It’s culturally not accepted yet, which is dangerous.
Image credit: Whisper
4. Your family may not be there when you need them most
We have to break down these false assumptions.
Image credit: Whisper
5. The worst is when they blame YOU
No one should ever be blamed for struggling with mental health.
Image credit: Whisper
6. Everything feels wrong and it’s terribly lonely
It can be so hard to find acceptance and validation.
Image credit: Whisper
7. You don’t fit into the stereotype that is expected
And when people expect you to be something that you’re not, it compounds EVERYTHING.
Image credit: Whisper
8. It’s a struggle to make your community accept you
I had no idea this was a misconception and it breaks my heart.
Image credit: Whisper
9. Sometimes even therapists cross boundaries
I mean I hope permission was asked and granted…
Image credit: Whisper
10. Most of all, you need community support
I hope it becomes more accepted soon.
Image credit: Whisper
Honestly, I had no idea that mental health issues were called into question for black people, even by the black community.
That’s the last thing a person needs when they’re in crisis.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a difficult time, you can call 1-800-950-NAMI to speak to someone at the National Alliance on Mental Health who can help.
I hope there’s a societal shift across all communities soon. Did you know it was such a problem? Share your thoughts in the comments.
