with LaRonda Humphrey

Behind The Concealer was created to help others that are fighting the same or similar battles that I have, and to see that regardless of your past, regardless of what you’ve gone through, regardless of you being told ‘ no ’, regardless of you feeling like you’re not enough if you push through and dig deep down to muster up all of the strength and courage that’s inside of you, anything is possible.

I created Behind The Concealer to help those that are still in unhealthy relationships develop safe ways to get out and for those that were fortunate enough to get out, help them find their purpose and move forward. In essence, showing them how to #RemoveTheMask.

Personally, I know I hid a lot of what was happening to me by ‘ concealing ’ it with makeup. But I also realized that regardless of how much makeup I wore, my eyes ALWAYS told the truth! Each month I’ll be giving you tips and the steps you need to take to get out of whatever unhealthy situation you’re in whether it’s an intimate partner relationship, toxic family, or toxic friendship.

It Is time to REMOVE THE MASK! Domestic abuse and intimate partner abuse is associated with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Now is the perfect time for you to start your journey because May is Mental Health Awareness month. There are steps you need to take so that you can prepare for your “ next”, and your mental health and clarity are the foundation of it all.

Allow me to share with you 5 self-care tips that I stand by that are guaranteed to boost your mental health and give you the clarity you ’ll need on your journey.

LET IT GO! At the end of the day, YOU should be your longest commitment! Embrace positive affirmations- The negativity you’re used to or your inner critic can self-sabotage you. Don’t let it!

Affirmations- Here are some affirmations you can try: I love myself. I am worthy. I am beautiful.

ASK FOR HELP- Don't be afraid to ask for help. It doesn't make you look helpless or weak. In fact, it shows just how brave you are for seeking help and being open to receiving it. You can need help and still be strong. The road to survival is rarely short or easy, but it’s worth the journey!

Make yourself a priority- It’s OK to make time for yourself. Figure out what’s holding you back and

Exercise- Find at least one exercise routine that helps you release the grief, anger, and pain that can sometimes stem from abuse and old trauma (catch that ‘ old’ trauma. We’ll get into that later on). Some good exercises to try are kickboxing, dance cardio, or even yoga.

Journaling- Putting your thoughts, feelings, and ideas on paper is another way of releasing them because sometimes there is no one to talk to. You can always go back and reevaluate those things you’ve written about. If privacy is an issue, you can still write your thoughts and feelings down and once you’re finished you can tear the paper up and discard it. At least you’ve gotten that out of your system.