July was Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental health is just as important as physical health, but for many minority communities, accessing care can be challenging due to stigma, cultural barriers, and systemic inequalities. This month, we shine a light on the unique struggles faced by Black, Indigenous, People of Color and other underrepresented groups when it comes to mental well-being. Our counselors at Olive Branch Counseling Associates understand the importance of acknowledging the impact of racial trauma, discrimination, and generational stress on mental health. We are here to help you navigate challenges, build resilience, and empower you on your journey toward healing.

In our waiting room this month we asked our clients to participate by answering one of the following questions. If you are a member of a minority community, what is that community and what is something that you experience that damages your mental health? What is something you do to help your mental health?If you are a member of a majority community, tell us about how you currently/are planning to be more inclusive of minority communities around you. These are some deep questions that got some thoughtful responses. These responses included: “Olive Branch is constantly on the search for minority mental health providers – especially those who speak multiple languages!”, “I’m thankful for everything God gave me and my family members.” with a wonderful picture drawn of a cross, “I’m glad I have friends and family” also with a beautifully drawn picture of a heart, “I am planning on reaching out to my friends and family members to support them and their well-being.”, “as a member of the majority group, it is my responsibility to make minorities of all kinds feel that they are valid. Beyond mental health, it is important to be an outspoken advocate for minority rights & needs. And some little ones added to the conversation with drawings and little notes.

Also in our waiting room we had an imaginative book that explores how the pressures of the world can make it challenging to believe in oneself, a feeling that may resonate with children from minority communities. Taco finds strength and confidence again through the support of his friends, teaching an important lesson about self-acceptance. This story encourages children to embrace their unique identities, even in the face of societal pressures. This is a great way to explain complex subjects to younger audiences. It was called “Taco Falls Apart” by Brenda Miles. 

Finally we had 3 challenges for our clients to try this month. They included a Self-Care Challenge: Take 10 minutes today to do something that relaxes you. A Support Challenge: Reach out a friend or loved one and check-in on their well-being. And a Social Media Challenge: Share a post or story that raises awareness about mental health in minority communities.

Written by,

Hope Meegan

At the Front Desk