How Many More Do We Need to Lose?

An Honest Conversation About Black Women and Mental Health

Trigger Warning: This substack contains discussions about suicide, self-harm, and mental health challenges. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help or reach out to a mental health professional. The content may be triggering for some readers, and discretion is advised. I intend to address these sensitive topics with empathy and understanding while fostering a space for open dialogue and support.

It has never been more apparent that there is a lack of mental health support in the United States, especially for Black women. It also comes as no surprise that many Black women have been deeply affected by the recent loss of Dr. Antoinette "Bonnie" Candia-Bailey, the VP of Student Affairs at Lincoln University. Her tragic death by suicide on January 8, 2024, serves as a stark reminder of the mental health struggles faced by Black women in the workplace.

Having battled suicidal ideation and self-harm in the past, Dr. Bonnie's untimely demise resonated with me on a personal level. I know what it's like to be in a toxic workplace environment where the person who is supposed to be holding others accountable who engage in harm is the primary person inflicting the damage. As a healthcare provider and educator, I truly believe that for this reason and more, we must address the mental well-being of Black women comprehensively. We cannot afford to overlook how mental health impacts our clients' ability not only to thrive but to survive.

As we know, Black women often navigate a complex intersectionality of race and gender. For that reason, the systemic barriers they face can contribute to heightened stressors and mental health challenges. To further exacerbate the situation, the societal expectation of the "strong Black woman" has created an environment where seeking help may be perceived as a sign of weakness. Thus, supporting Black women's mental health requires that healthcare providers acknowledge and understand these unique challenges. Here are some ways to do just that. 

#1. Lead with Empathy

When interacting with our clients, we must do so from a place of empathy. That means understanding their feelings, even if the experiences they have had are different than our own. I can say firsthand that empathy made a big difference during the times in my life when I struggled with my mental health the most. Empathy from others, especially my healthcare providers, was the thing that helped me maintain hope when the environment I worked in was highly toxic.  

When we prioritize empathy in our interactions with our clients, we create a supportive environment for them. This doesn't mean we become their therapist if that is beyond our scope of practice. This means we are actively listening, validating emotions, and acknowledging the impact of systemic inequalities on mental health. In doing so, we can identify areas of concern and recommend additional support when needed.  

#2. Remember Representation Matters 

This has become a catchphrase over the last few years; however, representation still matters. Whether providers realize it or not, an inclusive approach to mental health services makes a difference. People want to be seen and heard. Knowing that they will be listened to, affirmed, and believed is vital for reaching them effectively. 

If you predominantly work with people from cultures that aren't your own, ensuring that you're culturally competent will be critical. In addition, tailoring your care plan to address the intersectional nature of their experiences is a must rather than an option. By doing so, you'll be taking proactive steps to dismantle the barriers to access and contribute to a more equitable system.

#3. Break the Silence

Sharing our mental health struggles is not about centering ourselves in the conversation but breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. For those of us, particularly within the Black community, breaking the silence around our mental health struggles is needed. Too often, people are suffering in silence to avoid being stigmatized. We are doing eachother a disservice when we aren't being open and honest about our struggles. 

I remember when I first started going to therapy and encouraging my father to do the same, he was very apprehensive. Due to stigma in our family, he had highly negative perceptions of treatment. After sharing my struggles and the benefits of therapy, he slowly started coming around. That's why initiating conversations about mental health is essential. When we do so, we create a non-judgmental space where people feel heard and supported. This can empower them to seek help without fear of judgment or ostracization.

Dr. Bonnie's story is a poignant reminder of the urgent need for change within our healthcare system. As healthcare providers, let us commit to understanding the unique challenges Black women experience, promoting inclusivity in our practices, and breaking the silence on mental health. Doing so can contribute to a transformative shift that ensures adequate and compassionate care for Black women.

If there is one thing you can do today, I want you to check in with your "strong" friends. Please don't assume that their silence means they aren’t suffering. By creating an opportunity for them to share their struggles, we ensure they receive the support they deserve on their journey toward mental wellness. Together, we can bring the transformative change needed to create a healthcare system that truly serves and uplifts everyone.