RallyUp Mental Health Magazine Spring/Summer 2021

#RallyUp2SaveLives

Mental Health

Magazine

SHAMANDA

Burston

The Wounded Healer bringing Therapy to Films with Cinematherapy

REWRITE YOUR STORY

By: Melena Saddler

TRAUMA & THE ARTS By: Tor White

Special Feature: KEITH MASCOLL Founder of The Triggered Project SPRING/SUMMER 2021 $10.99

Warrior Zone XiI: ROBNESHA R. SMITH JESSICA BAGGETT

FEATURES: KATRINA LEGGINS, LCSW Founder of K. Nicole Writing CRAIG COOPER Founder of Uplift Kings

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

OUR FIGHT OUR FIGHT “Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.” ~ Steve Maraboli

“No matter how much falls on us, we keep plowing ahead. That's the only way to keep the roads clear.” ~ Greg Kincaid

07

BEHIND THE SCENES

09

FASHION SECTION | How much do you love yourself?

POETRY CORNER | Simone Walsh • KeErica Brown

13 16

YOUTH ZONE

Youth Cover Feature: TIVA • Poem | Caleah Henneghan Poem | Lorelai Symmes • YOUTH ZONE FASHIONS

COVER FEATURES | Shamanda Burston

23 26 28 30 31 34 35 37 39 41 43 44

Faith & Mental Health | Peace During the Storm Therapy Is Dope: | Unused Smart Ways to Lift Your Mood Dear Amanda 5 WAYS To Develop Your Strengths And Starve Your Weaknesses | By: Kendra Hathaway

WARRIOR ZONE XII | Jessica Baggett

• Robnesha Smith

LOVE & MENTAL HEALTH | Divorced But NOT Defeated BEAUTY | MAKEUP & Mental Health Does It Really Matter

RALLYUP & SEE WHAT'S INSIDE

FOUNDER'S LETTER

06

MHCA Mental Health Change Agent | Katrina Leggins, LCSW

MAKING A DIFFERENCE | Craig Cooper

SPECIAL FEATURE | Keith Mascoll

TRAUMA & THE ARTS | Tor White

HEALTH & WELLNESS | Mental Health Mood-Boosting Recipes

MENTAL HEALTH MAGAZINE

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Vol. 4 Num. 2 SPRING/SUMMER 2021 Founder & Editorial Director Nikita Powell-Cottman Managing Editor: TJ Woodard Asst. Managing Editor: KeErica Parker-Brown Associate Editor: Paul Cottman Fashion Director: Kena'I Hollingworth Beauty Editor: Nekesa Smith Beauty Assistant: TJ Woodard Comic Illustrator: RJ Sterling Therapy is Dope Editor: Amanda Fludd, LCSW-R Contributer Writers: Jada Carrington Vanity Dawson Andrae Hayden Denise A. Kelley Marisa Jones Kendra Hathaway Melena Saddler

Lex Morgan Talona Smith Tynesha "Tyi" Flood Kena'i Hollingsworth Torre "Tor" White KeErica Parker-Brown TJ Woodard

Youth Contributing Writers: Lorelai Symmes Nina Hollingsworth Calaeh Henneghan

Copyright © 2021 RallyUp Magazine No portions of the publication can be transmitted, reproduced, or distributed in any form without contacting Editorial Director Nikita Powell-Cottman.

All articles have been reviewed and approved by Nikita Powell-Cottman and her editorial team.

FOUNDER'S LETTER Dear RUM Family & Friends,

As I sat down to write this, I felt the need to explain where I've been mentally lately. As the founder, I like to keep it real because others need to know they are not alone. Too many times, I wanted to stop, disappear and remain inactive on social media. I was exhausted, mentally & physically. My anxiety was heightened and I was experiencing heart palpitations at times. I was burned out and just did not realize it at the time. I learned that burnout can take place in bereavement, it is not all "work-related." I just want to heal in harmony but Life just does not give you a chance; especially when you have one family after another family member pass away. It's really taking me longer than I can imagine getting back to some sort of normalcy. Grief can really make you weaker. I was questioning whether I should move on but God quickly reminded me that RallyUp Magazine is aligned with my purpose and begin to give me the provisions needed to push through.

Are You Burning Out? Does every day seem like a bad day, you feel overwhelmed most of the time? You are not just tired, you feel like the weight of the world is sitting on your shoulders.

Burnout generally starts from work or a day-to-day routine you perform but it can be anything that pushes you consistently to your limit for too long. It can happen as a result of toxic and difficult relationships, separation, divorce, caring for an elderly or sick relative.

As for treatment, therapy was necessary for me. I needed help sorting out things. Sometimes a few weekend getaways, simple vacations, or lifestyle modifications can do the trick. Other times, a career change or a total life change is inevitable. I spend lots of alone time praying and deep thinking. For me, this is crucial and very helpful so I can understand what I am experiencing and what I need to change. I hope this is helpful and the rest of this issue because it is really some great reads!

Blessings & Love,

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 06 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Using Movies For Healing Shamanda Burston all smiles as she prepares to share her first cinema-therapy film with the world.

Cinema therapy can be a powerful tool used for healing! After watching a movie, are you left full of emotions, insights and inspired? Does it make you want to reflect on your own life experiences, challenges or gifts?

If you answered Yes, than you may be interested in the transformation power certain films could have on your healing journey. It will require you to be open to learning how movies affect us when watching certain films. It allows you to use the effect of the films on our psych for inspiration, insight, change, emotional release or relief.

Cinema Therapy is being used as a part of psychotherapy. It is an innovative method based on traditional therapeutic principles. In following certain guidelines when choosing films for cinema therapy and watching them consciously can support personal and spiritual growth.

Cinema therapy is only recommended in the context of psychotherapy for long-standing psychological problems" (Wolz, 2021).

UNAPOLOGETICALLY BLACK IS

To be unapologetically is unrepentant, remorseless unmerciful, impenitent, unashamed, obdurate, defiant, callous, pitiless, relentless.

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You Are Entering....

THE BODY POSITIVITY ZONE

NO Negative Self Talk Allowed NO Negative Body Image Talk or Excuses Allowed

10 SELF LOVE DAILY AFFIRMATIONS

1. I love myself completely.

2. I choose to love myself exactly as I am.

3. I release self-criticism and choose self-love.

4. I am proud of my journey and how far I’ve come.

5. I love myself fully now as I continue to evolve.

6. I accept all of myself.

7. I am enough, just as I am.

8. I allow myself to do what is right for me.

9. I honor my inner knowing and stay true to myself always.

10. I STILL Choose Me!

How much do You Love Yourself?

OH THIS OLD THINGS

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RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 12 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

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POETRY CORNER

Remembering Courage By: Simone Walsh I am remembering Life at its best Rustling against my cheek Streaming freely throughout my veins I am remembering Existing in the finest hour Among the living Laughing obsessively With the peculiarities of love.

I am remembering Days of long ago Affairs with time Jaywalking on the streets of destiny I am remembering Who I was and who I am Feeding on kindness Loving endlessly in blindness As this nest of past recollections distract my ammunition I am slowly paving the way into tomorrows And get beyond my yesterdays For I am remembering Courage.

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POETRY CORNER

Mi Amor pero Mi Dolor By: KeErica Brown

Medication, hospital stays, and suicide attempts consumed me While underlying it subdued me Secret abortion, miscarriages, and STDs could've fooled me Yet God had a bigger plan and wanted to use me Dusted me off, turned me around and uplifted me Free mind, appreciation, gratefulness upshifted me Mariajuna, Long Beaches, and Extacy .........well it was that one summer But I broke free Music and writing save my life College and Friends are my Wife A love I never knew Oh did I forget about this new shoe?

Wale said Ambitious Girl Lil Wayne said The Sky is the Limit Tupac said Keep Your Head Up and Kanye said Put On

Drug dealin father but no ritz and gold Coldest Winter Ever but my story wasn't sold

Well that's what I will do wouldn't you?

Trials & Tribulations, Miles & Stipulations, Spirals & Connotations

Single mother, two kids never went without Jordans, Forces, and Girbauds let me give her a shout out

Look where I'm headed out of Harris Stowe with a diploma Florida beaches with a soma Grad school from a coma Not walking for two weeks Now I have heels on two feet Shed some light to these youngsters Tell my tale so they won't plunder Giving resources galore Do you want some more?

Promiscuous Girl, living up to false expectations Then he touched her some would call it molestation Living life with no care in the world Until the Bipolar Blues stood up and did a whirl

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 14 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Well this is just a snippet even a tidbit emotional release, will set you FREE

Take Suicidal thoughts seriously and Get Help!

I did and I feel Much Better!

Photography : Tinisha Curl

We Fight Foundation, Inc. : www.wefightfoundation.org

TIVA OUR VOICES MATTER Platform for 18 and under

TIVA’s Life

is an Echo C ourage is not the absence of fear. Courage is being scared and doing it anyway. Rosalynn Thyssen, thank you for every ounce of what it takes for you to show up every day.

Theodore, Trinitee, Tiva, and Chloe, please believe that today and every day, you are honored and supported.

Thank you for sharing your son and brother, Traeh…and his echo with the world.

Courageous conversations create windows and tear down walls; this courageous conversation is designed to do just that.

Tiva Thyssen, Traeh’s extraordinarily brilliant, courageous, and resilient 8-year-old sister, joined me in a transformational discussion where she shared beautiful and sacred pieces of her relationship with Traeh. Tiva also shed light on her experience as a younger sister who lost her big brother to suicide as a result of bullying.

Compassionate. Forgiving. Kind. Loving. Without hesitation, these are words that describe the radiant beam of light known as Traeh Thyssen. Traeh (Heart spelled backwards) embodied the essence of what it means to have a Heart.

One example of Traeh’s immeasurable kindness and heart to help others was demonstrated by his commitment to grow his hair and donate it to cancer patients. He saw a need and was using his power create beauty for others. An act of love that would echo in the lives of others indefinitely.

An unfortunate truth is that there were spaces where the light of Traeh’s loving nature was not valued. These spaces included the hearts and minds of peers who found joy in causing him pain. Hurtful and violent acts included excluding him from social events that other peers were invited to, verbal attacks, and physical attacks. At least one of Traeh’s peers decided to cut his hair. This is one of the last known acts of physical violence against him.

Throughout his life and leading up to his death, Traeh was compassionate, forgiving, kind, and loving. Traeh did not fit the textbook examples of a young person “at risk” for suicide. He didn’t become withdrawn or become angry. He didn’t act out or treat others with the same injustices that he endured. He appeared to be ok.

While reflecting on her relationship with Traeh, Tiva recalled that he was a supportive big brother; he was there for her when she needed a friend. She reflected on fun times when he’d flip on the trampoline and never land on his feet! She enjoyed spending time with him.

In the time since Traeh’s death, Tiva and her family honor Traeh’s legacy through their commitment to bullying prevention and education. Starting with the face in the mirror,

Tiva demonstrates kindness and caring to those she cares about and strangers alike. She enjoys offering compliments to friends and supporting them during tough times.

We need a soft place to land. A safe place. Tiva shared that in her safe space she has a pillow with pictures of her and Traeh. She is using her special pillow to help her when she’s missing her big brother. For those who need a safe space, Tiva recommends the following toolkit: • • • • •

Pictures of the person that you’re missing.

Pillows.

Snacks (because you may be in your safe space for a while).

Comfortable clothing.

Kleenex.

How can adults help?

1) Prioritize time to listen intently, intentionally, and without judgement to what young people are communicating and what they ARE NOT communicating. (#13minutechallenge) 2) Ask open-ended probing questions to gain clarity about what young people are experiencing.

Ex. “What is a song that you would use to describe your day, week, month, etc.?”

(Listen to the song and follow up with a discussion).

How can young people help?

1) Identify a soft place to land. A safe place. This can be a sibling, parent, friend, or trusted adult.

2) Speak your truth with someone you trust. Your voice matters. You matter.

3) Affirm, I am having a hard time, but I will stay, from Tiva for hard days.

YOU ARE WORTHY OF PROTECTION. These examples of what we can do is a starting point. We can save lives…one truth at a time.

Traeh’s life and the way he lived it left a resounding echo in this world. An echo that serves as a blueprint to model our lives after. Let’s make some noise…and lots of it!

Tomorrow gets better and you are not alone.

-Rosalynn Thyssen

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 17 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

POETRY CORNER

I’m the Harriet of Now By: Caleah Henneghan

Run, Run, Run - they say But I stand tall, not afraid That man, oh that man, he’s bad they scream Never, I say, never to me I’m Harriet. The strong woman that’s Me Just like Maya, phenomenally I reach for the sky The world in my span, in reach I’m Harriet that’s me You’ll never know, how cold it gets Until you’re locked up - freezing up to neck And you’ll never feel the pain in your feet Until you’re barefoot, running for days to me And you’ll never know freedom Oh no you won’t Until you know how bad it hurt To keep me from you, To hold me back - I’d never Never want that feeling back

But oh, through the pain I stood firm, in belief That God was calling me home soon, I’ve prepared the ones he set free I’m Harriet, that woman you read about Well not exactly her But I’m the Harriet of now.

I may not free slaves.

But I will free minds Teach them the world Give them what’s mine’ Live and love and leave a legacy What my dad missed out on, will be the reason we We march on to another day Never look back Because I know, she never lacks I may not have been hurt, or spat on before But I know just like her, Imma win my war I’m Harriet, that woman you read about Well not exactly her But I’m the Harriet of now.

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 19 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

I am Beautiful

POETRY CORNER

By: Lorelai Symmes

“I am beautiful” I said as I looked at my reflection on that summer night standing in the mirror at my third grade dance recital my hair curled my face bright my soul alive “I am beautiful” I said on my first day of sixth grade I kept telling myself that but I believed it less and less every single long day my smile grew smaller my motivation dulled yet I kept going reminding myself of who I was

“I want to be beautiful” I said on that october night my parents were gone I was all alone in front of the space heater as my body began to give up nothing but bones bruised skin dull eyes and I wanted nothing more than to be able to say “I am beautiful” one last time

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Your thoughts matter.

Your words matter.

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Your words are the exact medicine needed to heal others.

Photo By: SDeneen Photography

Join the RallyUp team as a contributor writer for our Youth Zone and share your brilliance with the world!

For more information about the Youth Zone, please contact Lex Morgan at: lexmorgan.ruyouthzone@gmail.com.

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 28 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

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Self-love has very little to do with how you feel about your outer self. It’s about accepting all of yourself. ~Tyra Banks

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BUTTERFLY DREAM RALLYUP FAVORITE LOOKS

SHAMANDA

BURSTON M.A, ED.S, LCAS, CAADC

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” This keeps me grounded when I struggle with anxiety and stress. It reminds me that with God, I already have the power to overcome any obstacle and challenge ~2 Timothy 1:7

S

hamanda Burston is beating the odds, proving everyone who thought she would not make it and would become another statistic. Wrong! Just twelve years ago, Shamadawas a high school drop out and single mom of two. Today, she is a PhD Student, Executive Producer, Screenwriter, Published Author, Licensed Clinician and Speaker. Shamanda is a true example of resilience because these accomplishments did not come without tremendous challenges, but she is winning!

RUM: For some reason, people think therapists, clinicians, and mental health professionals are exempt from mental challenges, can you tell us about your mental wellness journey?

SB: The narrative surrounding clinicians is that we live “perfect” lives, with “perfect” families, marriages, children, careers, etc. This is not true. Many of us entered the field of mental health because we

either experienced mental illness personally or have loved ones who struggle with it. I am no exception. My mental health journey began as a young girl. My earliest childhood memories were not that of playing with dolls or on the playground with friends.

Instead, I remember the yelling and fighting between my parents. Being the oldest of 3 children, I became very codependent and protective of my mother. I was a perfectionist, good grades, helped with my brothers, etc.

Any and everything I could do to make life easier for my mother who had become a divorced single-mother of 3 in her early 20’s.

My mental health journey continued into my pre-teens when I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, an auto-immune disease where the immune system attacks its organs (small Intestine). After my initial diagnosis, I was severely depressed, suicidal, anxious and hopeless. I was teased by my classmates who would say things like “wow, she looks like a skeleton.” And I did. After a year of excruciating pain, 5 medications daily, inability to eat, I was down to my lowest weight of 55lbs. My doctors ordered homeschooling and required a home health nurse to visit me daily due to my PICC line (I was fed intravenously to gain weight for my upcoming surgery). After reaching 65lbs my doctors performed a surgery to remove over 14 inches of my small intestines. At 13 years old, I finally gained weight and felt “normal”, but the damage had been done.

Fast forward a few years later, I found myself in a domestically violent relationship. I was an A-Honor

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 23 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

roll student, attending multiple college-level courses in high-school and a homebody but I attracted an abuser. Within a year I had been abused physically, sexually, emotionally, and psychologically. To make matters worse, I was pregnant and dropped out of high-school. A year later, I was sexually assaulted and pregnant again. By19, I had become a high-school dropout with 2 children under the age of 2, domestic violence survivor, childhood illness survivor, and a single-parent striving to raise my children with government assistance.

At 25-year-old, I was finally diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder and PTSD. I was a Licensed Clinician and felt ashamed to have my own battles and struggles with mental illness.

After engaging in my own therapy, I realized that I didn’t have to carry the shame and could instead help destigmatize mental illness through transparency. I am a Wounded Healer.

It is my own wounds and healing process that makes me most effective as a clinician.

RUM: What is your expertise in the mental health field?

SB: My expertise in the mental health field is the intersection between Mental Health and Addictions. I refer to myself as a Dual-Diagnosis Counselor. My advanced degrees are in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and my Licenses and certifications are in Addictions. I am also a first year Counselor Education PhD Student specializing in Trauma & Crisis.

RUM: You were featured in the past titled, "Not another Statistic," please share with us those things that you were up against and what fueled you to keep pushing when things get tough?

SB: I am a first-generation college graduate and will be the first Doctor in my family. For most of my life, most of my family members and those around me struggled with poverty. I had a deep desire to break the generational curse of poverty on my family. But, I was a single-mother of 2 receiving every government-assisted resource possible to provide for my children and continue my education.

I met with my DSS case-manager and Section-8 case-worker and made a vow to them that I would only receive those services temporarily.

It was a promise I made to myself and my children. I wanted a different life. I wanted to purchase a home. I wanted to pay “cash” for my groceries. I wanted to have a professional career and make my children proud.

RUM: You are an Executive Producer of LuLu B. Productions, LLC, a production company whose focus is on cinema-therapy-focused content, tell us what birthed LuLu B. Productions?

way of continuing her legacy of giving and loving people as they are.

LuLu B. Productions officially turns 1-year-old on May 27th, 2021. My first production was a web-series I wrote, executive produced, SB: LuLu B. Productions, LLC. is a subsidiary of co-directed in 2017. I created 6-episodes that my corporation LuLu B. Inc. a brand focused on each tells a different aspect of my life (single-parenting, being a high-school dropout, creating mental health related products and content. I initially began with an e-commerce being a big sister, etc.) I wanted to tell my story store which offers journals, stress balls, visually and decided to release the content on aromatherapy, etc. to assist with managing my YouTube channel for free. mental health symptoms. I named my company In 2020, I completed a certification in after the nickname my beloved aunt Josie Mae Treatment And Education Through Cinema.

Burston called me as a little girl. “LuLu” means Cinema-Therapy is “an expressive, senso“remarkable”. For all of those years she was ry-based therapy that uses movies, television speaking that over my life. My aunt passed shows, videos, and animation as therapeutic away in August 2014 from Advanced Stage-4 tools for growth and healing in individual, Liver Cancer after over 17 years of sobriety. I family and group therapy.” (psychcentral). wanted to create something in her honor as a Experiencing burnout which provided89 traditional therapy, God gave me the vision to combine my years of clinical experience, my passion for writing and content creation to create films to spread mental health awareness. I crowdfunded over $21,000 in cash/services in 30-days during the pandemic to executive produce my first micro-budget feature film.

RUM: What inspired your first movie, Wounded Healer, was this a spin-off from the book you wrote? We noticed it was titled the same.

SB: The feature film “Wounded Healer” is the book-to-film adaption of my memoir, also titled “Wounded Healer”. In July 2019, I released my first book to share my own personal journey with mental illness. I wanted to provide a behind-the-scenes view of my life as a therapist who also needed and continues to utilize therapy. My memoir details my life from childhood to my mid-twenties.

After receiving the amazing book reviews and feedback from people across the world, I decided to write the screenplay version. The film is funny, relatable, educational and inspirational. It has been followed by producers from BET, NETFLIX, and OWN. It is currently still in production with a tentative release of Summer/Fall 2021.

In 2015 after graduating with my Masters degree and obtaining my first clinical license, I relocated to Charlotte, NC from Shelby, NC and rented my first home without section-8. Shorty after I received a letter from my food-stamp case manager stating that my income was now over 100% above the poverty level and my benefits were terminated. I stood in the kitchen and cried tears of joy. I was 100% self-sufficient and had broken the generational curse of poverty.

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 24 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

RUM: Outside of making movies, what are other ways you are promoting change and mental wellness?

and movie producer! BUT GOD!! Our stories don’t’ have to end on a negative note. Keep pushing forward. God’s love for us never fails!

SB: Outside of making movies, I utilize social media as a way of promoting change and mental wellness. I created a YouTube channel “Life with Shamanda” in 2017 and regularly upload vlogs related to various mental health and life topics. I am very transparent with my content. Some of my favorites are “Dating someone with a mental illness”, “My first flight with an Anxiety Disorder” which has almost 30,000 views, and “How Childhood Trauma affects our Adult lives.” On my Instagram page, I poll my audience and accept topic requests via DM. Honestly, it’s my way of giving back and providing insight for those who may not have access to counseling.

RUM: What are the ways we can encourage more people to see mental health?

RUM: They're going to be readers who have thoughts of giving up or having thoughts of harming themselves, what encouraging words do you have for them?

SB: It’s “normal” to want to give up. Life is hard!

But remember that you were created for a special purpose. Even if you haven’t figured out what that purpose is, the fact that you’re breathing gives you purpose. Instead of giving up, document the journey. There is someone out there experiencing the same or similar challenges. I’m so glad that I never gave up. The God I serve doesn’t make mistakes. His plan is ALWAYS greater than ours. I never thought that I would go from being a 19-year-old high-school dropout, teenage single-mom of 2 to a 32-year-old Licensed Therapist, PhD Student,

SB: The best way to encourage more people to see mental health is by being transparent. If I had never told my story, no one would believe me. I don’t look like what I’ve been through.

There are so many celebrities and everyday people who have endured trauma but they don’t look like it. When we share our stories, we free others from the bondage of silence. When you look around and know that those you admire the most also battle the same mental health or life challenges as you…but they are able to preserve in spite of, THAT is encouraging. Oprah, Dr. Maya Angelou, Iyanla Vanzant are amazing Black women in media that experienced very painful childhoods but look what they were able to accomplish. THAT’S the power in telling our stories with full transparency. My goal as a movie producer is to create stories that inspire, motivate, encourages and destigmatizes therapy/counseling. My desire is for counseling to be a normal part of our lives.

As normal as going to the gym!

CONTACT INFO:

: Shamanda.Burston@gmail.com : www.ShamandaBurston.com Movie : @WoundedHealerMovie Book : @Wounded_Healer_Book : @LuLuBProductions : “Life with Shamanda”

YOU'RE NEVER ALONE OR WITHOUT

HOPE! (Psalm 46)

Peace During the Storm By: Andrae Hayden

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (ESV)

Daily Affirmation

When faced with trials, I will keep my mind on you. You are the creator of all things.

There is nothing too hard for you. I will wait patiently in my storm, because I know you will deliver me. I live for you and you alone.

Taken from “Devotionals for the Mind” by Andrae Hayden Available on Amazon.com

Devotionals for a Queen is a devotional book that travels with you through many different stages in life. Life can bring about many changes as well as challenges. During their own journeys through young adulthood, authors Andrae Hayden and TJ Woodard experienced their share of hardships, as well as good times.

Through the strength of Jesus Christ, the lessons they learned along the way led them on a path to spiritual maturity. They teamed up to create this powerful devotional unlike any other. Specifically crafting each devotional to encourage, and motivate its readers through various stages of Life. Devotionals for a Queen comes straight from their hearts to yours. It is transparent, heartfelt, and highlights some of the greatest scriptures and motivational quotes.

Designed to empower you to be the royal Queen that God designed you to be. Andrae and Tamika pray that readers are inspired to go deeper into the person their savior desires them to be as believers.

His love, strength, and peace will guide, and transform you into the Queen that he created you to be.

Photo by Todd Trapani on Unsplash

Consolation from the scripture saying Take Heart! The Lord says this to encourage us. He has overcome the world, so we will overcome also. When faced with any difficult situation or mental torment, if we believe that we will overcome it, we will.

OUR READER’S CORNER A Queen Guide to Dating the Christian Way

Are you dating, considering dating or have dated and tired of making the same mistakes? Have you given up on finding love altogether?

TJ Woodard and Alton L. Fitch shows you that following God's instructions as it pertains to dating will change the course of your relationship. They encourage you to recognize you are royalty and should be treated as the Queens that you are. God has someone He designed especially for you, and if we stay on course He will give you the desires of your heart.

The Feel Good Movement!

By: Kendra Hathaway

The Feel Good Movement is a story about unbelievable strength, grace and determination.

The author shares how to go from being broken to brave, beautiful and then blesses. The reader will get a dynamic story along with some tips and hardcore advice for the readers.

This book is powerful! it will motivate anyone who wants to feel good by showing them exactly how to make that happen.

Dear Fear Volume 3 is a book by visionary author Tiana Patrice that consists of powerful stories by women who have had to look fear in the face and push through adversities.

“Activating your Fearless” is what Coach T calls it. TJ Woodard is one of those women who tells her story in this book compilation where she shares having to grow up with the secret of being molested and hiding by: Tiana Patrice it for years. This secret booklaunch.io/tjwoodard crippled her most of her life silencing her in so many ways. In this book she finds that her voice has power in her chapter titled, “Dear Fear…You Can’t Have My Voice!”

Dear Fear Volume 3

Tyeisha Brewer-Fields grew up wanting so badly to be normal.

In the book “Respect the Shoulder Tap” a young woman who was tormented by her experiences as a child, later finds that she does not have enough self-confidence to do the things necessary to move forward in her life.

She learnt through struggle how to use her negative life experiences to push and encourage herself. In doing Respect the she was able to move Shoulder Tap this, past her negative thoughts By: Kendra Hathaway of self, and into a woman of enormous strength.

Later, she turnes that strength into motivation and was able to accomplish her goals, as well as understand how strong, smart and beautiful she was, but first she had to soothe the musing of her own mind.

This book will inspire any person looking to learn how to motivate themselves and move forward in their lives. If you need some encouragement to press forward, this book is for you.

In her memoir, the Lotus Tattoo: One Woman’s Grit from Bully to Redemption, Marisa takes us on her unconventional journey of perseverance when all odds seem to be against her. Her memoir highlights the impact of mental health and the healing that can come when you reach out for help.

For Survivors of trauma or those impacted by mental health, this is an inspirational story that can help you through By: Marisa Jones your healing process.

the Lotus Tattoo

For therapists, counselors and mental health professionals, the Lotus Tattoo is a great case study on the impacts toward mental and physical health after abuse and trauma.

You can purchase the Lotus Tattoo here on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/057856694X/

It took her time to accept that she is not normal-and even longer to embrace that that's OK. When she finally did, she began thinking about why society makes anyone who does not fit into a neat little box feel so bad.

Normal

By Whose

Standards?

By: Tyeisha Brewer-Fields

In this book, she shares her struggles as well as her belief that God loves us all and made us in His image. She also points out that He gave us His son, Jesus Christ, so that we all may have eternal life. God made this sacrifice for all of us, including those that don't fit the definition of "normal." No matter what the author has had to go through, reminding herself that God loves her has allowed her to overcome challenges-and they can help you, too.

Too many people continue to suffer from a mental disorder in silence because society has turned a blind eye to their problems.

Join the author as she shares her personal story of overcoming the obstacles and debunking the myths that surround mental illness.

You may have to go walk down the halls of a psychiatric unit to see a person bound by a physical straitjacket, but you don't have to go too far to see others mentally bound. Walk outside and look around your neighborhood, walk into one of your local stores, walk into a family member's house; Or, Perhaps, look in the mirror. Many people are mentally bound by things and don't know how they got there or how to get freed from it. All that is known by the person is that being bound from the mental bondage come sometimes feel just as tight and like you're stuck in By: Tyeisha Brewer-Fields a straitjacket, or any physical restraints. However, walk through this book to remove your "jacket" (to your freedom) with Tyeisha. Find out who you can be and what you can accomplish outside the "jacket."

Outside The Jacket

Does it feel like life has you going through the painful, uncomfortable, heated, and dark times of a fire? How can I get out of the fire? What good can come from me going through the fire? Take this journey with Author Tyeisha as she shares how going through her very own house fire and other fires of life refined her.

Learn how your fire(s) can refine you too. And, learn to turn what may seem like losses from your "fire" into gains.

By: Tyeisha Brewer-Fields "When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze" (Isaiah 43:2, New International Version).

Refined By the Fire

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UNUSED SMART WAYS TO LIFT YOUR MOOD By: Amanda Fludd, Psychotherapist

L

ately we’ve been consuming an extraordinary amount of media focused on our health with COVID-19 and our personal and emotional safety with the very visible crimes against people of color. Let’s face it, life can be very negative sometimes. Whether or not you recognize it, the media you consume can be very toxic and have a negative impact on your thinking, behavior and even your mood. Discrimination is a traumatic experience that can cause a similar experience to PTSD, as well as depression and anxiety.

”

“The media you consume can be very toxic and have a negative impact on your…mood

Some of the signs to look out for are fatigue, fears about personal safety, withdrawal from others, increased sensitivity to people, periods of sadness, worry and trouble sleeping. Have you had any of those experiences? If so, you’re not alone. A third of Americans are showing signs of clinical anxiety or depression, and per the CDC, have reported mood altering symptoms during this monumental moment in history.

In the face of this pandemic and racial trauma, it’s vital that you have ways to manage how you feel and your natural response to that. There are effective ways you can lift your mood and take control of your day.

Fake it Until You Make it!

Have you heard the phrase, “thoughts become words, words become actions, actions become habits”? Well, if you haven’t, it’s really so true. If you find yourself feeling angry, sad, irritated or in a slump, try to refocus what you are thinking about. It is probably connected to what you are thinking, and your brain just needs a jump. How do you do that? Change the thoughts! Change the negative into a positive or find a perspective that is more helpful to you.

Whether it is with positive affirmations, journaling what you’re thankful for, or simply putting on a smile and an uplifting tone- even if it doesn’t feel believable in the moment, act like it is, act like the person you want to be (faking a better mood) and focusing on new thoughts is a sure-fire way to find yourself in a better mood.

Reduce Your Consumption Consider what you are taking in and how beneficial it is to your health. As we mentioned, words (pictures, sounds) have impact. You do have the power to turn off the news or even go on a media “diet” intentionally avoiding images of racial abuse and negative events.

Get Up and Move!

Stretching, Yoga or activities like walking and biking can also help alleviate stress, which can help you work your way into a better mood.

I’m aware we can’t always hop up and run a mile – or that we would even want to – but you can totally take a minute to stretch your body! Do what you need to get your blood flowing, be proud of yourself for all that you do, and realize by taking the time to move your body, you’re moving in the right direction.

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Spread the Love!

Studies have shown that doing something nice for someone is another quick way to boost your mood. It’s easy to get busy and neglect ourselves, as well as other important people in our lives. While Photo by: Uriel Mont from Pexels it may seem harder to engage in an act depending on how you feel, doing something to brighten the day of someone you care about tends to raise your serotonin levels. It has a boomerang effect- what you put out comes back.

Another quick tip as an act of self-love is to create people boundaries.

Try to avoid relationships with people who dismiss the seriousness of how you feel and your experiences, and connect with communities who have shared experiences and can support you. You deserve love back too!

Change Your Mood, Change Your Life With so much going on in the world each and every day, it’s natural to have difficult days. We all do. The better prepared you are to combat the unexpected and navigate the impact it has on your mood, the more likely you are to protect your mental health and handle the issues that disrupt our lives.

I hope you remember these quick tips when you’re feeling blue. Self-care is so important and to be your best self, you need to implement best practices. Sometimes the solution is so simple, it might just work.

Amanda Fludd, LCSW-R, is a Licensed Therapist, Mental Health Consultant and Personal Development Coach with over 15 years’ experience. Amanda oversees Therapy is Dope for RallyUp Magazine. You can find her at :

: @Therapyisdope : @Therapyisdope : www.amandafludd.com

DEAR AMANDA

Photo by Stanley Morales from Pexels

Everything you need to know about

Mental Health

Lately I've been having frequent panic attacks and feeling anxious. I don't want to go on medication. What are some other things I can do to cope? Journaling and therapy is not working. ~Andre, Richmond, VA I’m curious to know why therapy isn’t working and whatever your reason is, you should discuss that with your therapist. Therapy is your experience and if you’ve tried it for at least 4-5 sessions and you have been actively going to therapy and doing the work, but still don’t see changes, share that with your therapist. It’s a collaboration between the two of you to figure out what may be stalling your progress. In some cases, it could be your commitment to the work (are you invested in homework, open while in session, practicing skills between sessions, etc.), or maybe you need a new treatment approach like Cognitive Behavior Therapy or CBT for anxiety. When your quality of life still isn’t where you want it to be, explore medication. Exploring doesn’t mean you are going to start it; it’s having a conversation about your options to make an educated decision about what you need.

Sometimes, because of the makeup of our brain, medication is the missing key. It’s like telling an asthmatic to breathe in the middle of an asthma attack - all the strategies in the world won’t work if they just need their medications to open up their airways so they can then do the work to breathe.

Some similar things you can also incorporate - a regular yoga practice and daily mindfulness practices to naturally teach your body to slow down and relax. As you incorporate that into your life, make sure to also start that conversation with your current therapist or another mental health professional.

Amanda Fludd, Licensed Clinical Therapist in NY, Mental Health Consultant and international women in business Empowerment Coach. She helps professional women master limiting mindsets, achieve work life balance and live their lives in confidence. Her passion is working with people affected by trauma, particularly people of color (POC), and she is excited by the opportunities to reduce the stigma around mental health and improve healing amongst Black and Caribbean communities. Her coaching programs focus on work-life balance during crisis situations, understanding trauma in the workplace, tackling negative thinking and productivity and self-care through mindfulness.

Find her at: www.amandafludd.com and follow her on Instagram @therapyisdope Thank you for your courage with this question. You’ve helped so many people and I wish you the best on your journey to great mental health.

Amanda Fludd, LCSW-R www.amandafludd.com RallyUp Magazine

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 29 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

5WAYS TO DEVELOP YOUR STRENGTHS AND STARVE YOUR WEAKNESSES! By: Kendra Hathaway

Sounds pretty easy right? Don’t dwell on anything that is a weakness and continue to work on the things that you are strong in. Well, there is a reason it sounds easier than it actually is. The answer is, people normally know their weakness, however when it comes to their strengths- they aren’t as familiar. Why do you think that is the case?

One reason could be because weaknesses show themselves a lot, showing up more than we want to see them.The more they show up, the more familiar we become with things that cause us stress, anguish, problems, and things that are not good in our life. When it comes to strengths, they seemingly come along every now and again, peeking their heads in spaces and at the most opportune time. When they do come around, they give us a laugh, a smile and undoubtedly a good feeling. Although we’d like to see them more, they seem to be occasional happenings that come and go. We know they make us feel good, and we always want to see them more often than not. Did you know that there is a way to make this happen? Yes, there is a way to see more of the things that give you smiles, laughter and good feelings.

First, start by learning your strengths and then accentuating them.

That’s right, when you find something you are really good at- make it a big deal. Do more of it and learn what it is about this thing that makes you able to do it well.

Second, find out what makes it a strong point for you and how you relate to it. Knowing these things are important because they help you to know and understand where your strength comes from in this area and knowing is half the battle. After you know where your strength comes from, now time for number the Third, Yes, it’s time for you to develop your strength. That means continue to work on it, research it, and play around in this area of your knowledge so that you can continue to get better at it. Once you get better in this area, you will probably see that you will be able to add on other things that are related to this, and you can get strong in those as well.

One might say, well that won’t work for me because I am strong in an area that I am not interested in, or something I don’t really like. Well, I say it is still important to give attention to these areas because the point in doing this is not only to learn about your strengths, but also to learn about your relationships to them. If you learn about your relationships to your strengths, you naturally do the next best thing.

Which is number Four, learn about your relationships to your weaknesses. This is important because your relationship to something can determine if you are able to excel at it or not. Sometimes we are weak in something because of the way we see it. For example, I’ve never been good at math. In grade school, I couldn’t get the easiest problems correct and later I would ask myself, why can’t I do math?

What is it about my understanding that stops me from being able to complete even easy assignments? Well, I later found that it was my relationship to numbers that stopped me from being able to complete math assignments. Since I feared math, I didn’t like to do it. Me not liking math was causing me to have a negative relationship with anything related to it. Since I had a negative relationship, I didn’t see it as something I was good at, or something I could do.Therefore, I was not able to do it, even when it was easy.

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The good thing is most times when we are strong in something it is something we’d rather be doing. That Is why it is important to show our strong points, and not be afraid to highlight them more. It’s also ok to let others see what you already know to be true to who you really are. In this way, you are focusing on the things that you do well, and you are developing these skills and the relationship you have with them. Did you notice in this reading how I focused on the strengths?

How when I spoke about weaknesses it was only to validate strengths?

That is my number Five, focus on the strengths! Again, we already know the weaknesses, let’s bring light to the things that make us happy, that make us smile, that make us laugh and that validate us positively. All of this is not to say that we won’t ever have to work on or address our weaknesses. However, when the time comes to deal with our weaknesses, we can ensure that we are more educated on where they come from, and why they have been problematic for us.

How is this topic related to mental health you might ask? The topic is related to mental health and well-being because there is a direct correlation between mental health and what a person believes to be true about themselves. Limiting beliefs about ourselves, many times causes self-doubt. Self-doubt can be a barrier to understanding your strengths and what you are able to do. When you feel able, you can work through stressful life situations. You can also learn how to cope with problematic issues, and overcome anxiety and depression with more ease. At the end of the day, developing your strengths is a unique skill set and learning this important skill will help you in other areas too. Developing your strengths will help you to become stronger mentally as well as emotionally and mastering this will help your weaknesses to eventually dissipate.

Kendra Hathaway, MA, FLE, LMFT Kendra Hathaway is a Family Life Educator, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Self-help Author from Michigan. She is the Founder of Positive Transformations- A Private Therapy Practice in Michigan. Kendra also contracts with agencies and different facilities to meet her client’s needs. She specializes in personal growth among other things and works notably with African American women and young adults who are looking to improve their lives.

Kendra can be reached directly at: : (586) 551-2757 : Positivetransformationpllc@gmail.com

Mental Health Warrior Zone XII

NIKITA POWELL-COTTMAN Anxiety & Seasonal Depression

Vanity Dawson Bipolar Disorder & Depression

Lorelai Symmes Anorexia, depression, anxiety, PTSD

Jada Carrington Anxiety & Depression

Kayla Sampson Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar

Kenai Hollingsworth Suicide Survivor,Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, depression

Tai Campbell Depression & Anxiety

Cymone Jones Suicide Survivor, Bipolar Disorder & Depression

Lawrence Durden Depression

Neta Vaught Suicide Survivor, Depression, Anixety, PTSD

Robnesha R. Smith OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)

Tamika Woodard Anxiety & Depression

Tyshia Douglas Depression

Craig Cooper Depression & Suicidal Ideation

Tyeisha Brewer-Fields schizoaffective disorder, depressive type

Jessica Baggett Schizoaffective Disorder

Jessica “Kelly Jé” Kelly Bipolar Type 1 & 2 Severe Depression, Psychosis, and Schizophrenia

Dasia Wood Suicide Survivor, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD & Depression

Tanzania Fair Depression & Suicidal Ideation

Elyse Lancaster Suicide Survivor

Evangelist Tamika Strickland Depression

Fighting Back Against the Battlefields of Our Mind Real People, Real Stories...Overcomers! www.rallyupmagazine.com

JESSICA

BAGGETT W

I was always a fighter, I didn’t let anything bring me down. But my faith and life was put to the test.

hen I was 17 years old, I was diagnosed with a chronic mental health condition called schizoaffective disorder. I suffered from anxiety, depression, hallucinations, self harm and suicidal thoughts. Although it was the toughest and hardest thing I had to go through, thanks to medication, therapy and God of course I am doing much better.

I was told that I was going to end up in a mental health facility or worse. I have truly beaten the odds. Despite what I was going through, I was able to not only graduate from high school on time, but I graduated from college with honors. I have written books, films, performed One Women Stage Shows and started my own production company, Pro'ta'jay Productions.

Out of all my accomplishments, being a mental health advocate is what I am most proud of.

I have been spreading mental health awareness for many years because I believe that I have gone through what I’ve gone through to help others. I just released my fourth book, “The Struggle Is Real” which is now available on Amazon. The story is based on my story being a teenager going through mental health challenges. I wrote the book so readers could see what it feels like to start showing symptoms of a mental illness and how you can overcome it.

I want people to know that just because you suffer from mental health issues, doesn’t mean that you can’t accomplish great things and that there is nothing to be ashamed of. As I said, my faith and life was put to the test but I ended up passing with flying colors.

RUM: WHAT WAS LIFE LIKE BEFORE YOUR DIAGNOSIS? Before the diagnosis I was what you would call a "normal teenager" if that's possible. I was always creative and I loved to write and make music. I was in high school and I was known for being the funny and sarcastic one. I had lots of friends and I was having a good time.

When I wasn't home or at school, I was always at church. My life was great, I felt like I was on top of the world. Honestly, I would have never thought that I would end up with a mental illness.

RUM: WHAT CHANGED AND ALARMED YOU AND YOUR PARENTS THAT YOU NEEDED HELP? Everything was going good until one night that changed my life forever. I woke up in the middle of the night and I started seeing flashing lights and the room was spinning. I didn't know what was going on. Shortly after, I had my first anxiety attack and I went to the hospital and they said that nothing was wrong. For me, when I started having auditory hallucinations, that's when I knew that I needed help. I reached out to a social worker at my school. I believe that my family knew that something was wrong because of the way I was acting. Even my friends knew something was wrong. I went from being funny and full of life to deeply depressed and hopeless.

RUM: DURING COLLEGE, WHO WAS YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM AND THE THINGS YOU DID TO COPE AND ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS FOR GRADUATION? It took a lot of tears and prayers for me to get through college. Through it all, my mother was my support system. I have seen where a lot of parents "release" their children once they go to college but not my mother. When I graduated from high school, I went to Hudson County Community College and my symptoms were still severe. I really thought that I could handle a full college load, boy was I wrong. I was so overwhelmed and depressed. My mother supported me the best way she could. One day we went to the school and she told them my "situation." The school sent me to disability support services, which was something that I didn't even know existed. Through it all, we all decided that it would be best for me to go part time and only take two classes at a time. I believe that was the best option for me at the time. I even took my tests at the disability center and it was better because I was able to take as much time as needed. After a few years there, I picked my grades up and I was accepted to New Jersey City University. Even when I went there, I went to their support services and it was the same thing, they allowed me to take my tests at the center and I only took two classes at a time. That was also a great support system for me. After many years of hard work and almost giving up, I finally graduated with honors with a Bachelor's in Media Arts. That was one of the proudest moments of my life.

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 32 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

RUM: WHAT ARE SOMETHINGS YOU NOW HAVE IN PLACE TO HELP YOU WHEN "LIFE GETS DIFFICULT? When things get difficult, I now self talk and I say to myself that things could be worse. Being grateful for what I have helps me to realize how blessed I am. I also have a great support system of people that I can call or talk to when life gets difficult.

RUM: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A YOUNG ADULT WHO MAY BE EXPERIENCING MENTAL CHALLENGES BUT UNSURE OF THE FIRST STEPS TO GET HELP? The advice that I would give to a young adult that may be experiencing mental challenges is to first "accept' that you have a problem. Once you accept it, then you can get help.

Make sure you find a professional that you feel comfortable talking to because they can't help you unless you are honest.

Don't be ashamed to get help, we all need help sometimes. If you were physically sick, you would go to the doctor to get checked out so why not get help for your mental health. It is just as important.

RUM: IN CLOSING, WHAT WORDS WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEAVE FOR OUR READERS? Just because you face mental health challenges or any obstacles in your life, it doesn't mean that you can't accomplish great things. Lets end the stigma on mental illness so that more people can get help. We are in this together.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. ~ Hebrews 11:1 : @protajay : JessicaBaggett : protajayproductions : @thewriter86 : thekeys08@gmail.com : www.eclecticone.com

ROBNESHA

SMITH

known as

Nesha

eople with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) often live in a state of constant anxiety and worry; which they try to control through creating rituals or habits that bring comfort and Nesha did just that! Pretty Magic Maid Service LLC (PMMS) is a commercial and residential cleaning company that she started in 2016 after being diagnosed with OCD anxiety. Rather than taking medications, Nesha decided to start her own cleaning company as a way to help her cope. Nesha always had a passion for cleaning and keeping things organized because it gave her comfort during her challenging moments.

Everything I seek is now seeking me. I am listening to God and he is always listening to me RUM: At what age was your onset OCD and what were your symptoms?

NESHA: My onset OCD started at age 15 and I would get anxious if someone sat on my bed or if they came over and left their things out of order in my space.I noticed that it got worse after I had kids. I decided to seek help in 2016 when my child’s father and I were living together. It frustrated me when he would try to help because he did not clean the way I would clean. Then when nothing was done I was also frustrated. I realized then I had OCD for sure. No one wanted to invest in my business so it took until 2019' for me to officially launch.

RUM: You made the decision to start your own business as a way to cope with your OCD anxiety rather than taking medications which we think is awesome! What helped you to make this decision?

NESHA: I decided to start my own business because I have two children and I am a single mother. When I was first diagnosed I started taking the medications.

However, the effect of the medication was not good while raising kids alone. I would be groggy and pretty much out of it. I realized God gave me purpose and a business plan so I ran with it. The vision, name, clients, employees, etc. came from God and I am forever grateful.

RUM: Has it been helping so far?

NESHA: As of today, PMMS is still helping me cope. I am looking to hire and then branch off into the cleaning product line. My goal is to have a herbal-infused natural cleaning product line (with CBD) by 2022.

RUM: You decided to not take medication, are you receiving any other type of treatment or using some other methods to cope in addition to running your business?

NESHA: In addition to running my business I have found healthy alternatives to cope. I Pray, journal, I embrace nature, I see a psychiatrist, I am a part of A Intentional Life Club, I am a part of GIRLCEO and most importantly I take time for self-care DAILY. RUM: People tend to use the term "OCD" jokingly, what are some common stigmas you face? and how does it make you feel?

NESHA: Common stigmas I face:

"You are making me feel bad because you are doing too much" "You are crazy it is not even dirty" "You are bossy and boujee because everything has to be perfect" When the stigmas are said to me it makes me want to stay to myself. I almost want to say NO to guests and visitors in our home. I wonder why others do not see what I see?

RUM: What is one thing you want people to take away from this interview?

NESHA: I want people to know it is okay to have a mental illness.

It is not okay to do nothing about it and say you are the way you are! Every single day gives you the opportunity to be better.

Every test leads to a testimony.

RUM: What are somethings you now have in place to help you when "life gets difficult?

NESHA: When things get difficult, I now self talk and I say to myself that things could be worse. Being grateful for what I have helps me to realize how blessed I am. I also have a great support system of people that I can call or talk to when life gets difficult.

RUM: What advice would you give to a young adult who may be experiencing mental challenges but unsure of the first steps to get help?

NESHA: The advice that I would give to a young adult that may be experiencing mental challenges is to first "accept' that you have a problem. Once you accept it, then you can get help.

Make sure you find a professional that you feel comfortable talking to because they can't help you unless you are honest.

Don't be ashamed to get help, we all need help sometimes. If you were physically sick, you would go to the doctor to get checked out so why not get help for your mental health. It is just as important.

RUM: In closing, what words would you like to leave for our readers?

NESHA: Just because you face mental health challenges or any obstacles in your life, it doesn't mean that you can't accomplish great things. Lets end the stigma on mental illness so that more people can get help. We are in this together.

: @Ms.Nesha_Smith : @Prettymagicmaid_ : 804-485-1055 : pre ttymagicmaid@gmail.com : www.prettymagicmaid.com

RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM | 32 | SPRING/SUMMER 2021

DIVORCED But Not

DEFEATED By: Talona Y. Smith

M

arriage is supposed to be a commitment for life.

Through good times and bad times. We are supposed to work through it all and have a forever kind of love.

But not all marriages have a lifetime promise. Some experience infidelity, go through irreconcilable differences, financial strains, abuse, or incompatibility. Regardless of the reason, divorce can negatively affect each person.

Married couples can develop mental and emotional issues going through a divorce and in the aftermath of a divorce. The situation can be even more traumatic for children who experience their parent’s divorce, than the couple themselves. Children grieve divorce also.

Some children blame themselves for their parent’s divorce. They may think if they didn’t get into trouble, earned better grades in school, did more chores around the house, or if they were not a financial burden that their parents would be happy and stay together. In families with multiple children, a more defiant child could be blamed by their siblings as the reason for the divorce. Some older children may develop an authoritative but nurturing relationship with their younger siblings to protect them from the emotional strains of their parent’s divorce, setting aside their own mental state.

Many children go through various stages during and after divorce just as their parents, but do not always understand or can correlate divorce as a contributing factor to changes in their behavior. Some feel unloved or replaced, especially if one or each parent remarries.

Some may feel a sense of lacking or embarrassment compared to their friends who have both parents at home. Some won’t know how to explain their feelings and will begin to rebel in hopes of finding their own happiness through drugs, sex, alcohol, or a marriage of convenience just to feel loved.

Children should not be the main reason, or the only reason a couple remains married. Children are very perceptive and can sense an imbalance in their parent’s relationship. Even if they don’t speak of it.

Nor should they ever be used as a tug-of-war rope or puppet between parents settling scores or trying to hurt each other.

I can’t tell anyone how to manage their household or raise their children. I can only share the experience I had with my parent’s divorce, as well as, how I am supporting my children through my divorce from their dad.

In March 2020, the world learned about COVID-19 and was forced to shut down. People were instructed to take shelter in their homes.

Only venturing out for necessities. During that time, I learned just

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Strength Support/Encouragement Honesty Humility And all the things that are good for your mental health

how much the divorce affected our children.

My children and I spent hours sitting outside in the yard with no electronics…talking with each other. I learned that my attempts to hide and shield my children from the abuse I experienced did not work. They didn’t know the extent of what I had endured, but they knew their mom was unhappy. They knew their dad had an agenda outside of our family. Hearing that made me hurt for them all over again because I didn’t want them to know what was going on. What happened between their dad and I was supposed to have stayed between him and I. Even though we were introduced to an epidemic for the first time in our lives, our time together was priceless. I listened to their stories of resiliency and their strength made me stronger. I learned so much from my children during those months, and they forgave me for staying in an unhealthy marriage just for their sake. Our healing process from the divorce began during that time and is still happening today.

BEAUTY SECTION

MAKEUP & MENTAL HEALTH DOES IT REALLY MATTER? By: TJ Woodard

Expand your creativity and “inner” artist. Art is therapeutic. I see my face as a canvas with the opportunity to create. This could be another mood booster and a form of therapy when you let your creativity run free. Try makeup challenges. Find a look based on your comfort level and ideal makeup look and try to recreate the look on yourself. No matter the skill level or the amount of makeup you are used to wearing, you can try something natural or something more dramatic. Pinterest and YouTube are great tools for finding makeup looks and tutorials that you can follow. This can open the door to an “inner” artist that you didn’t know was there. It can also create an outlet to express yourself serving as a healthy distraction.

W

hen we think about mental health and makeup the question is does it really matter. Does makeup help with improving a person’s mental health. As the Owner and CEO of a beauty brand and someone who has made my own mental health a priority, I believe that makeup can help improve mental health. Here are a few reasons why: When you look good, you feel good. Some people might think that makeup encourages a false sense of confidence and can seem superficial. I know when I look good, I feel good and when I feel good, I want to look good. Even the most confident person can get an extra boost and pep in their step when they are able to take their natural (beauty) look to the next level. It doesn’t mean that a full face of makeup is required but a simple application of mascara, eyeliner and a good lipstick/lip gloss can be enough to change any mood.

Overall, makeup can be good for your mental health. Makeup artistry is an art. Although it is a career field that usually requires certification or training, it can be as simple as purchasing your favorite products and spending personal time pampering yourself while letting your creative juices flow. Take a selfie and show off your skills. You DO NOT have to have a license to apply your own makeup. It can be as simple as you want or as bold as you like. Either way, it is a form of self-care and a contributor to your overall mental wellbeing. Give it a try!

Daily beauty routines can create a cycle of positive habits. Having a healthy daily routine incorporated with positive affirmations or uplifting music while face to face with your mirror can get your day off to a good start. Giving yourself that early morning “pep-talk” and pampering can help boost your confidence and set your day off to a great start. I’d like to call this “taking time for YOU.” Even a few minutes each morning for self-care can help with setting intentional time aside for positive thoughts and planning for your day. This can minimize stress and reduce anxiety and depression.

You learn to embrace your authenticity. While applying your makeup, you become familiar with your features that make you unique. Yes, this can pose a challenge for some as we can tend to see more flaws than anything. However, applying makeup can help you to find ways to enhance and accentuate your features while minimizing what we see as flaws. The more you continue with a skin and/or makeup routine you become more comfortable in your own skin. Embrace your uniqueness with God!

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Mental Health Awareness Wordsearch A E V I S S E S B O U P N O E J P I L L M Y A K

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MHCA

MENTAL HEALTH

CHANGE AGENT

KATRINA LEGGINS, LCSW Truly I tell you, if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and if you do not doubt in your heart, but believe that what you say will come to pass, it will be done for you. ~Mark 11:23 RUM: HOW DO YOU MANAGE YOUR OWN MENTAL HEALTH WHILE HELPING OTHERS? Katrina Leggins is a licensed mental health therapist, self-care educator, writer, and public speaker. She is an Oklahoma native who received both her Bachelors and Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma in 2013 and 2014. Katrina is the owner and founder of K. Nicole Writing LLC, an informational and inspirational platform that helps motivate individuals through mental health education, empowerment, and inspiration. KNW services offer public speaking and group workshops for adolescents, teens, and adults focused on mental health and self-care. Along with these services, Katrina runs a t-shirt apparel line and provides mental health products that focus on raising awareness for self-care and mental health.

In addition to her businesses, she is also one of the founders of “Becoming The Full Package”, a workshop series launched in 2017, where they teach girls, teens, and young women ways to manage their mental health, wellness, self-image, and embrace their beauty.

Katrina has worked for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services in various roles working with teens, adults, and families for eight years to the present. She currently serves as a licensed therapist at Central Oklahoma Community Mental Health Center, Children & Family Services division.

RUM: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A THERAPIST? KL: Having the deep desire to help my loved ones who struggled in different capacities ultimately inspired me to become a therapist. I witnessed and experienced many things at an early age, fighting my own battles, which led me to become a therapist as well. Often I was that “go-to” person for many people when it came to them needing help, and this was a rewarding feeling. During my early teen years, I knew it was my calling to help others, and becoming a therapist would help me achieve this goal.

KL: While helping others, I manage my mental health by incorporating different forms of rest, setting boundaries with myself and around work, and practicing self-care routinely. It's taken me some time to figure out what works and what doesn't when taking care of myself as a therapist. For many of us, it's so easy to want to do more and save everyone, but that is impossible. Once I began implementing the strategies I mentioned earlier, I noticed a shift occurred mentally and emotionally, which has helped me tremendously as I continue with my career.

RUM: WE LOVE WHEN WE SEE MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS GO ABOVE AND BEYOND TO PROMOTE CHANGE, WHAT BIRTHED K. NICOLE WRITNG LLC., AND “BECOMING THE FULL PACKAGE?" KL: K. Nicole Writing, LLC was birthed through God, in short, if I'm honest. I knew that I wanted to help educate and inspire others (outside the therapist realm). Initially, I started blogging and posting many personal and mental health-related quotes from what I wrote about during my journaling time. As time went on, I began to write more educational content about mental health and self-care, started speaking, expanded my brand even more, and began my t-shirt apparel line to bring more awareness to mental health and self-care. Becoming The Full Package was founded by my best friend and I. We both have always had a passion for helping young girls due to many of the personal struggles we experienced during our adolescent and teen years battling with low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. We wanted to seek a remedy due to the lack of opportunities for young girls in our commu-

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nity and wanted to create a platform to help them feel more empowered and celebrated. This series launched back in August of 2017.

RUM: LAST, THERE MAY BE SOME READERS WHO MAY BE HAVING MENTAL CHALLENGES, HAVE THOUGHTS OF GIVING UP, OR HAVING THOUGHTS OF HARMING THEMSELVES, WHAT ENCOURAGING WORDS DO YOU HAVE FOR THEM? KL: For those silently fighting battles alone, wanting to give up, or self-harming, I first want to remind you that you do not have to go through what you're experiencing alone. I know that the stigma around mental health can keep many people from seeking help, but please know help is available, and this doesn't make you weak. Another thing is to remember how far you've come and be proud of yourself for doing hard things; this is a big deal. If therapy isn't what you're ready for right now, you could consider group therapy, joining a support group, or even consult about medication management. Mental health treatment looks different for everyone. Just know the first step to getting any help is speaking up. If it helps, start with communicating with a trusted loved one or even with your doctor so you can be led in the right direction. I often recommend this as an option, so someone is aware of what you're experiencing.

CONTACT INFORMATION: : knicolewriting@gmail.com : www.knicolewriting.com | | : @knicolewriting

Natural Radiance

Beauty lifestyle company hair Products | Education

Nekesa J. Smith CEO/ Founder Nekesa Natural Radiance Hair Loft www.nekesanrhairloft.com salon 404-835-2117

Craig Cooper

Founder and CEO of Uplift Kings

You go through what you go through and give thanks to God for bringing you out of that situation. Then, you extend your hand back to help bring the next man up

C

raig Cooper is from Landover, Maryland. He is a mental health coach.

He is the Founder and CEO of Uplift Kings which is a platform for all boys and men to uplift each other. He is 11 years free from depression and suicidal ideations. He has a podcast called "Walking Purpose" to highlight men's stories around mental health to break the stigma. He also has a background in mixed martial arts and tai chi. He is the Co-Founder of ImanT Apparel which is a mental health clothing brand.

RUM: WHY IS MENTAL HEALTH SO IMPORTANT TO ME? CC: Mental Health is so important to me because it can affect every area of your life. It affects how you think, feel, and act. If you don’t take of the inner you, it will become difficult to enjoy your life. Everything starts in your mind and then it will manifest in real life.

RUM: WHAT BIRTHED THE UPLIFT KINGS? CC: In 2020, I was going through a phase where I was feeling burned out. When the pandemic first happened, I got the chance to relax my mind. I remember one day in particular my fiancé was hosting a series called the “Escape Zone” to have a safe space for women. At that moment, I realized that there weren’t many spaces for men to have a safe space to talk about their feelings and emotions. Through my battle with depression and suicidal ideations, I always wanted to share my story to help someone else. I also listened to Sarah Jake's sermon.

The sermon was called “From Weeping to Walking”.

At the moment, I felt like she was right there in the room speaking to both of us saying “it’s time to get up and start over”.

The next day God gave me a vision of a name that stuck with me

which was Uplift Kings. He gave me the idea and the logo. On May 15th, I had my first podcast interview with Men Talk TV. I remember receiving tons of positive feedback and that encouraged me to start my own podcast called the “Walking Purpose Podcast”. I wanted to give men of all races a platform to share their stories and experiences with the world to break the stigma around mental health.

RUM: WHY IS IT SO DIFFICULT FOR MEN TO ADMIT ANY HELP? CC: Society has placed a negative stigma on men to speak out about their feelings and emotions. It takes a long time for men to express themselves because their immediately judged and called weak. It’s hard for men to trust others because of fear, judgment, childhood trauma, no father and etc. Therapy is often labeled as a “bad thing” within black families. It forces men to mask their pain and suffer in silence. Often times some men feel as though they don’t have anyone to talk to when they are dealing with trials and tribulations in life. As early as the age of 3 years old, little boys are told: “boys don’t cry, wipe your tears, or man up”.

This kind of talk can strip a boy’s emotions away at an early age and then we become emotionless.

RUM: How do you plan to educate men on mental health in the future?

CC: I plan to educate men in the future by offering one on one coaching sessions for men and young boys of all ages, races, and backgrounds. In the future, I plan to write self-help books and launch a men’s mental health magazine.

There are so many men suffering in silence, and I will continue to help men find their voices. It’s time for a change and I will be that change that we need to see in our communities.

I believe that “You go through what you go through and give thanks to God for bringing you out of that situation. Then, you extend your hand back to help bring the next man up”.

RUM: If there is a man or young boy reading this who is having thoughts of harming themselves or giving up, what would you say to them?

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CC: To any young man or boy who feels like giving up on life. Is it unfortunate we as people we let negative words define who we are.

To anyone who feels like giving up on life. Just know that your life is worth more than your dark moments. The pain you’re going through today can be a testimony and motivation for victory for someone else.

Reach out to someone you trust that won’t judge you. Daily reminder every day you get up in the morning it’s a victory or something to celebrate. God loves you!silence. Often times some men feel as though they don’t have anyone to talk to when they are dealing with trials and tribulations in life. As early as the age of 3 years old, little boys are told: “boys don’t cry, wipe your tears, or man up”. This kind of talk can strip a boy’s emotions away at an early age and then we become emotionless.

RUM: HOW DO YOU PLAN TO EDUCATE MEN ON MENTAL HEALTH IN THE FUTURE? CC: I plan to educate men in the future by offering one on one coaching sessions for men and young boys of all ages, races, and backgrounds.

In the future, I plan to write self-help books and launch a men’s mental health magazine. There are so many men suffering in silence, and I will

continue to help men find their voices. It’s time for a change and I will be that change that we need to see in our communities. I believe that “You go through what you go through and give thanks to God for bringing you out of that situation. Then, you extend your hand back to help bring the next man up”.

RUM: IF THERE IS A MAN OR YOUNG BOY READING THIS WHO IS HAVING THOUGHTS OF HARMING THEMSELVES OR GIVING UP, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO THEM? CC: To any young man or boy who feels like giving up on life. Is it unfortunate we as people we let negative words define who we are. To anyone who feels like giving up on life. Just know that your life is worth more than your dark moments. The pain you’re going through today can be a testimony and motivation for victory for someone else. Reach out to someone you trust that won’t judge you. Daily reminder every day you get up in the morning it’s a victory or something to celebrate.

God loves you!

CONTACT INFO: @iamdarksuperman @letsupliftkings @IMANT_CLOTHING @CHUNK_AND_COOP

Be GR8 Today All Day Everyday!

Make Your Purchase at www.gr8clothingline.com Use Code RALLYUP & 15% will be donated to We Fight Foundation Inc. to help them FIGHT for Mental Wellness & Suicide Prevention.

: @gr8clothingline : GR8 Clothing Line : 2022772934

SPECIAL FEATURE

KEITH

MASCOLL

healing me in all three focuses, Triggered Life, Living a triggered life Podcast, and the Inner Monologue Sneaker Art Project because they inspire conversations about mental health. Finally, my relationship with my wife Roxann defines me. I have been in this committed relationship for a long time. I am proud of the work we have put in. We are not perfect, but we work really well together.

K

eith Mascoll, an actor/Producer/ Sneaker-head) is the Founder of the Triggered Project, and the Co-Host of the Living a Triggered Life Podcast with his wife Roxann. Keith is a survivor of sexual abuse and uses Art to tell his story to help others and promote social change in the Black and Brown community. All these forms of art Keith uses to start a conversation about mental health, abuse, redefining manhood, etc. Talking about male abuse is something the black community does not want to have. Keith hopes to break that stigma with his work. He is committed to using his unique and innovative style to provoke love, laughter, and empathy in each story told. Keith hopes by telling his story as a survivor of abuse that he can inspire other Black men to start come forward and start to heal.

What defines you?

A dark moment in my life when my trauma dictated my actions helped me become the founder of The Triggered Project which now defines me. I have always tried to give high-quality acting performances with my honesty, authenticity and give back to others. The Triggered Project is Shattering the silence, Nurturing the healing of black and brown male survivors of abuse with the use of art. The Triggered Project is

We read that you describe yourself as a high-energy chameleon, why?

I am full of energy! The joy that my family provided me throughout my life has helped to ground me in this work of mental health and sexual abuse. I feel like a chameleon because of my ability to adapt at any moment. My ability to adapt seamlessly allows me to become unrecognizable which helps me observe my environments and the people around me.

I have always had to reinvent myself to keep up, especially during this pandemic.

Working with John Oluwole ADEkoje helped me to reinvent my one-man show Triggered Life where I am sharing my story of surviving childhood abuse. Triggered Life morphed from a staged tour de force experience into a motion picture, live staged hybrid version with a live portion like a television show.

How old were you when the sexual abuse occurred, and how did it affect your mental health?

I was abused twice, one female and one male. The first time was at nine years old and then at eleven years old. I became so depressed I could not function in school very well. One of my abusers I had to see every day, and it was a constant reminder of what happened to me, plus this person

used a lot of control tactics against me which was really difficult. One of my coping tactics was to sleep a lot. I am a West Indian, Bajan specifically. Many of the adults in my family assumed that my sleep habits meant laziness. Bajans don't respect laziness. I was not lazy I was drowning and screaming at the top of my lungs in silence. Noone understood and no one asked me "What happened to you?"

As a young black man, how did you view yourself before, during, or after the sexual abuse?

Before the abuse, I was ok with myself. I was bullied because I had big honey dip Donut lips LOL and crooked teeth so I lacked self-confidence. During the abuse, I could not see myself at all. I never thought about (my feelings?) how I felt about myself. I think I could not face the truth of what was happening to me, so it was easier to not look at myself. After I was devastated and lost. I felt loyalty to my abuser because it was a family member. I submitted to the dynamic of this toxic connection because I saw no way out of it.

Who was I going to tell? I was too ashamed to tell myself, so how could I tell anyone else. I saw myself as less of a man, I was so uncomfortable with my body, I felt inadequate. I did not feel comfortable with my body taking a shower in the locker room. I didn't want to talk about the abuse so I made my own therapy when I got a little older Sneaker therapy.

Did your parents and/or loved ones know of your sexual abuse? If yes, how did they support you; especially during your mental health struggles?

When it happened nobody knew at all. I only started talking about it less than 10 years ago so my parents both died without knowing. Once I admitted the truth to myself, I told my wife about my male abuser and started my healing journey. I

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started speaking my truth and stood up to my family. Honestly, no one knew how to deal with the truth. The second abuser did their best to alienate me from the family by telling lies., my family ignored the truth and me. Triggered Life forced my family to hear the truth. I honestly did not have any expectations of them. what they will do with the information. I have not named the family members that abused me, because that is not important, what is important is the truth. Truth-telling and creating space for other black and brown men to feel encouraged to speak their truth like me.

In your Empty Frames AKA Emptiness with John Oluwole ADEkoje and the Isabella Stewart Museum video, you spoke of an "empty frame," how did you or have you filled your empty frame?

I am still recovering my art to refill my frame. Every time I get triggered, I get that empty feeling like my art has been stolen by my abusers all over again. I have to remind myself that I have painted part of myself again by doing the work and therapy as part of my wellness package. I am still healing so I have not finished my painting. It's an ongoing process. I know how the finished product looks now. I paint a little more every day with the hopes that one day I will finish it and never have to feel like an empty frame again.

With the sneakers project, tell us about that, what impact has it had on the youth? (Provide examples) Sneakers were my first form of therapy. I discovered how my trauma was connected to my love of sneakers. My gym teacher gave me a pair of Nikes to wear because I didn’t have shoes that day for the gym. I was emotionally drained and down from the abuse, but once I put on the shoes I felt powerful, and could not feel the pain anymore and so Sneaker Therapy began.

The Inner Monologue and Sneaker Art Project is a workshop that uses art to guide young men in writing a personal monologue about living this COVID life, manhood, mental health, being black and brown during the Black Lives Matter movement and resiliency. The young men also select three words that define them and write them on a pair of sneakers as a political act. The program guides the young men from metaphorically wearing their emotions “on their sleeve” to concretely and visibly wearing their own words on their shoes. This action provides them with a way to externalize emotions versus internalizing emotions that are a result of the social context. I want to create space for young Black and Brown

men to be heard. This gives the young men the opportunity to create their own narrative, people judge them so much, but now they will have the opportunity to really see them by reading the words.

In closing, there may be readers or listeners who may have thoughts of giving up or harming themselves. What encouraging words would you leave for them?

We are not defined by the trauma we experienced. The work is to understand that trauma creates a narrative that is not our own and that we have to start living our true narrative. Spend the time and energy figuring out who you are, and decide what is the best version of you, and work towards that every day. Figure out what kind of support you need to work towards this goal. Love yourself, breathe, and enjoy what makes you happy. You are

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not alone in this, know that, and it will get better because you will make it better.

Our silence when harm is caused to us only serves to isolate us, feel alone, and sometimes hopeless that's not your journey: "You are no longer surviving you are thriving and you have earned that."

Make sure you check out Keith's one-man show called Triggered Life, a podcast called Living a Triggered Life with his wife, and they talk about what it’s like to be in a relationship as a survivor and be triggered. The Triggered Project also does an inner monologue sneaker Art Project with young black and brown men as well.

Keith has a New York Critics Choice Award, look for Keith in the lead role in the movie Confused by Love on Amazon Prime, and in The Polka King on Netflix.

Keith is also a co-founder of The Front Porch Arts.

Contact Info:

: www.triggered1.com : www.KeithMascoll.com : Keith@KeithMascoll.com

TRAUMA AND

T THE ARTS By : Tor White

rauma significantly impacts a person’s emotional and physical health. When I think back on the history of the United States, traumatic events are ingrained in our history. While I, or many of you, may have not directly experienced certain traumatic events, those very traumas possess the ability to harm entire generations of people. Among the Black population, generational trauma is seen in many families and communities. The origin of trauma dates back decades — and, in some cases, centuries. In the United States, this is the consequence of hundreds of years of slavery, followed by segregation, racism, and the creation of systems that still, in 2021, oppress Black communities and other communities of color.

Despite the horrific acts that happened centuries ago and the acts that continue to happen, it is vital to our generation, and generations after us, that we heal. I know you may be asking: But how? How do we heal in the midst of a pandemic and racial divide? How do we heal in a society where suicide rates have increased tremendously over the last year? Trust me, I have asked myself these very questions. I have pondered where do I start, where do we start, for many years. The one thing that has remained at the forefront of my brain is that we begin to heal through uncomfortable conversations and, yes, you guessed it, the arts. Radical, right?

Again, when looking at the history of my people, Black people, art has always played a huge role in helping to escape the cruel realities of current situations. No matter what decade we choose to examine, we will find that music, spoken word, writing, visual arts, etc., all played a huge role in helping individuals express themselves and release their troubles. Think about it: How many times have you listened to music, danced, drawn, etc., to help you through an emotion? The release of frustrations, insecurities, and pain through art is powerful and, in my opinion, necessary.

One of my favorite poets is Maya Angelou. Maya Angelou became mute for five years after her rapist was murdered. She believed that her voice had the power to kill. Despite feeling that her voice was deadly, she turned to reading and writing. She allowed her pain to be released with a pen and paper.

Never underestimate the power of the arts and its direct correlation with mental health and healing. Personally, spoken word has helped me through some of my darkest moments. When I write, I am able to regain control over my thoughts and who I am. If you don’t take anything else from this article, please remember that art comes in various forms, which means there is a place for everyone.

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MENTAL HEALTH MOOD BOOSTING RECIPES T

HEALTH & WELLNESS

By: TJ Woodard

here is a saying that goes, “you are what you eat.” Did you know that what you eat can play a role in your mental health? There are foods often referred to as brain foods that can help decrease feelings of anxiety and depression. In this section, I will provide recipes that I find to be really good and provide nutrients that can assist in managing your mental health.

Let’s start with fish. Fish tends to be high in Omega 3s which is one of the brain foods I mentioned earlier in this article.

Omega 3s are fatty acids that are a good source for the mind and body. It has also been known to lower anxiety and depression, producing positive results. Fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines can be prepared by frying, steaming, grilling or baking and can be purchased in the can, frozen, or fresh. Here’s a quick and easy recipe I found on www.eatingwell.com submitted by Steven Raichlen (Eating Well Magazine – July/August 2017)

Plank Grilled Miso Salmon Ingredients 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1 tablespoon sake ¼ cup white miso ¼ cup mayonnaise ½ teaspoon lemon zest 1 ½ pounds salmon fillet, preferably king salmon, skinned 4 scallions, trimmed ¼ teaspoon ground pepper 2 teaspoons black and/or white sesame seeds (see Tips)

Directions

Step 1 Heat sake and maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat just until warm. Remove from heat and whisk in miso until smooth. Let cool for 1 minute, then whisk in mayonnaise and lemon zest.

Step 2 Set up your grill for indirect grilling. Build a medium-high heat fire or preheat a gas grill to medium-high.

Step 3 Place the plank, smooth-side down, directly over the flame and grill until the bottom is charred and smoky, 2 to 4 minutes. Set aside to cool.

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Step 4 Run your fingers over the salmon and remove any bones you find with tweezers. Place scallions on the charred side of the plank, leaving a little space between them. Place the salmon on the scallions and season with pepper. Spread the glaze on top and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Step 5 Grill the fish on the plank over indirect heat until the glaze is bubbling and browned and the fish is cooked through, 15 to 20 minutes. Serve on the plank, if desired.

Here is the direct link to the article found on the Eating Well website: https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/258531/plank-grilled-miso-salmon/

OPTIONAL INFORMATION TO INCLUDE

Tips Equipment: Cedar grilling plank Tips: Unhulled black sesame seeds are nuttier and more aromatic than their hulled white counterparts. Use them as a garnish, in granola or to crust meat or fish. Find them in Asian markets and specialty grocers.

COVID & MENTAL HEALTH T By : Denise A. Kelley

hursday June 25,2020. I woke up early in the morning, like I always do, preparing for my work day. This day something felt different. My body felt different. Now, I normally get a cold once a year, but it was too early in the year for my yearly cold. I had a headache and my throat was slightly hurting. Instantly I knew I had contracted the dreaded, and more importantly deadly COVID-19. As the day progressed, I grew worse, and although I hadn’t been tested yet, I KNEW within myself I had it. I moped around all day, but still not calling the Doctor.

Friday morning came with new symptoms, along with the symptoms I had the day before. At this point, judging from the body aches, and the high fever, I knew I had to seek medical attention. I called the Doctor and scheduled an appointment for a COVID-19 test.

The point of my story is not about the symptoms of COVID-19; I’ll save that for another time. I want to briefly talk about the state of your mental health while recovering from COVID-19. When it was

confirmed I indeed had contracted COVID-19, worry automatically tried to creep in. I instantly delved into article after article about COVID cases, and everything else COVID related. I began to pay close attention to the death toll around the world, and even closer to what was going on in the state I lived in.

There were so many people dying, and getting deathly ill. I began to really agonize about my outcome. I realized anxiety and fear were attempting to overtake my thoughts. I knew I had to do something to redirect these feelings. I am a Christian, so naturally I leaned on my faith. There were times when I didn’t mentally have the strength to hold onto my faith, and that’s when I reached out to others. This process was a ‘mental’ lifesaver for me. I was able to get through the month and a half of recovering from COVID-19 with my mental health intact, due to reaching out to others for help.

MORAL: Whenever you are going through something in life, you don’t have to go through it alone. REACH OUT!

By: Aeshita Sharma

MENTAL HEALTH STIGMA

I

write this article with the hope that the readers are able to gain a better understanding of mental health, the stigma attached with mental health and the resulting serious consequences of the stigma. This is not just my story. It is the story of every individual who has struggled or seen someone close to them struggle with their mental health. At the age of 17, I was diagnosed with panic disorder and was introduced to the brutal stigma attached with mental illness. While struggling with my mental illness, I had to face the deep-rooted stigma attached with mental illness and unfortunately, I am not the only individual who had to deal with the judgement and shame that is complementary with mental illness.

There are millions of people out there fighting a battle with not just their mental health, but also with the stigma attached to their illness.

My question is why. Why is mental health stigmatised?

There is no doubt that we have heard or come across terms like depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTST), eating disorder, schizophrenia etc., at least once in our life. However, do we know what these terms precisely stand for?

The probability of even one person out of ten, knowing the actual meaning of these terms is quite low. Depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, eating disorder etc., are mental disorders. Mental disorders or illnesses, refers to a wide range of mental health conditions that affects a person’s mood, thinking and behaviour. In today’s time, the misuse and misinterpretation of these medical terms is very common. For example, people often pass remarks like “That’s so OCD”. Most people think OCD is a condition where an individual is extremely organized and even a little disorganization tends to extremely trouble the individual. This is not what OCD is. OCD is a mental disorder categorized by intrusive, unwanted and disturbing thoughts that can cause individuals to ruminate, and feel guilt and shame. Often these thoughts cause individuals to act compulsively to get rid of the thoughts. Symptoms of OCD stretch much farther than just the fear of germs or the need to be organized. Compulsive behaviour, agitation, ritualistic behaviour, anxiety, irrational fears, repetitive movements, continuous repetition of thoughts, hypervigilance are some of the serious symptoms of OCD. Sadly, we live in a world where a majority of people don’t have the right understanding of mental illness. We cannot expect mental health stigma to end when a majority of people don’t have the miniscule understanding of mental illnesses. There is no doubt that people are not well aware of mental health stigma and its consequences. So, what is mental health stigma and how can we end it?

Ervin Goffman, a psychologist and writer defines stigma as “an attribute that is deeply discrediting, that reduces someone from a whole person to a tainted, discounted one”. In simpler words, stigma refers to a mark of shame or discredit. Mental health stigma refers to societal disapproval, or when society places shame on people who suffer with mental illnesses. It is the negative attitude or discrimination against someone based on their mental health condition.

Stigmatization of individuals with mental illness has a long tradition and the word “stigmatization” itself indicates negative connotation. In ancient Greece, the word “stigma” was used to mark slaves or criminals. For centuries, society did not treat the mentally ill much better than slaves or criminals. During the Middle Ages, it was believed that mental illness was caused by demonic possession, witchcraft or an angry God. Abnormal behaviour was viewed as a sign

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The problem with the stigma around mental health is really about the stories we tell ourselves as a society ~Matthew Quick that the person was possessed by a demon. There were several treatments for a person possessed by a demon. The most common treatment was exorcism, often conducted by a priest or other religious figures. Another extreme form of treatment was trephining.

A tiny hole was made in the skull of the afflicted individual to release spirits from the body. Most of the people treated in this manner died.

Other practices involved the execution or imprisonment of the mentally ill. From the late 1400s, a common belief was spread by some religious organizations that patients of mental illness had made a pact with the devil and committed horrendous acts, such as eating babies. These people were believed to be witches and were burned at the stake or thrown into penitentiaries or madhouses where they were chained to the bed or wall.

Presently there are mainly two types of stigmas attached with mental illness; social stigma and self-stigma. Social stigma, also known as public stigma refers to prejudice and negative stereotypes against patients of mental illnesses. Social stigma leads to discrimination.

Whereas self-stigma is the process in which an individual with mental illness internalizes the stigma. This results in low self-esteem, self-efficacy and delays in the individual’s recovery. Both of these stigmas have created a reluctance in people to seek help due to the fear of being shunned or rejected by others.

Sadly, the stigma attached to mental illness is ubiquitous. There is no country, society or culture where people with mental illness have the same societal value as someone without a mental illness. Individuals struggling with mental illnesses are often labelled as “crazy”, “mad” or “insane” and feel unwanted and unaccepted by the society. They face difficulties in accessing basic life necessities such as obtaining employment or renting an apartment. A survey in 2011 revealed that almost nine out of ten individuals with mental illness had experienced discrimination in England. Far more than any other type of illness, mental disorders are subject to negative judgements and stigmatization.

Imagine, society blaming people for being diagnosed with illnesses such as cancer. Holding them responsible for their condition and making them feel guilty for a situation that is in no way their fault.

Isn’t it wrong and heart wrenching?

For centuries, patients of mental illnesses were treated like this. Ervin Goffman, a psychologist and writer, has written in his book “The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life”, that “society is organized on the principle that any individual who possesses certain social characteristics has a moral right to expect that others will value and treat him in an appropriate way”. Many studies and surveys have revealed that individuals suffering from mental illnesses are among the most stigmatized, discriminated, marginalised, and vulnerable members of our society. Mental health patients often say that the stigma attached with their illness and the discrimination they experience makes their difficulties worse and makes it harder for them to recover. These individuals not only have to struggle with their illness, they also have to fight against the prejudice about their illness.

Mental disorders are widely present in individuals all across the world. One in four people have mental illness. Presently over 800 million people in the world suffer from some form of mental illness.

In India, more than 90 million people suffer with a mental disorder.

Mental health stigma is ubiquitous, meaning millions of people have to struggle with it. Sadly, due to the stigma more than 80% of these individuals do not seek the help they need. Just like any other illness, mental illness has the tendency to deteriorate if untreated. A delay in treatment can worsen the condition of the individual. If untreated, individuals with mental illness often indulge in deleterious activities like substance abuse, self-harm and even suicide at worst. According to the World Health Organization, around 8 Lakh people die from suicide every year, which is one person every 40 seconds. In India, 1.5 Lakh people die from suicide.

We unfortunately live in a world where if you break your arm or leg, everyone runs over to sign your cast and sends you best wishes, but if you tell people you’re depressed, everyone runs the other way. We are so open and acceptive to the idea of any body part breaking except for the brain. The symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD etc., may not be as clear to see as the symptoms of a broken bone. This however does not mean that these illnesses are not serious or damaging.

Individuals with a mental disorder often struggle to do the bare minimum. Imagine, not having the energy to get out of bed in the morning. Individuals struggling with depression often struggle to do the bare minimum of even waking up in the morning. Imagine, an unwanted thought being involuntarily repeating in your mind.

Individuals struggling with OCD struggle with unwanted repetitive thoughts that push them to act compulsively or repeatedly enact an activity in order to get rid of the thought. Imagine, walking into a room full of people thinking everyone is judging you. Individuals struggling with anxiety often struggle with social anxiety and fear going to crowded spaces. Imagine, being utterly scared of crossing the road. Individuals struggling with schizophrenia often struggle with irrational fears that hinders them to perform basic life activities.

Imagine, binge eating only to puke it all out later. Individuals struggling with eating disorders like bulimia or anorexia, view themselves as overweight. To prevent gaining weight, they force themselves to vomit the food out or over-exercise.

Individuals with mental illnesses are silently fighting a battle every day. It is us who fail to see and recognise their struggle. Society not only fails to recognise their struggle; but it also makes their lives difficult. Individuals with mental illnesses are often labeled as; “crazy”, “mad” or “insane”. They are made to feel unwanted and unaccepted.

They are viewed as attention seekers or difficult to deal with and are often isolated by society. People view mental disorders like depression and anxiety as self-inflicted and often pass remarks like “it's all in your mind”, or “don’t overthink it”. Often, when individuals struggling with mental illness tell their family or friends about their illness, people don’t believe them. Imagine, having one of the hardest conversations of your life and your family and friends respond with, “you’re not sick”, or, “you look fine to me”.

There are many misconceptions about mental illnesses but there is no logical or scientific reason for mental health stigma. Several studies have shown that stigma is the result of lack of awareness and knowledge about mental health. The lack of awareness essentially creates false connotation and negative perception of mental illness among people. The root of the stigma lies in the very core of our society. It is an odd paradox that we live in a society where one can speak unabashedly and openly about topics that were once considered unspeakable, but still remains largely silent when it comes to speaking about mental illness. It’s as if talking about mental health is wrong. If we don’t even talk about mental health openly, how do we expect the stigma around mental health to end?

The media is also a contributor to mental health stigma. The coverage of mental illnesses by the media has been consistently negative and imprecise. Television news, newspaper, entertainment programs, and movies play a major role in disseminating biased information about mental illness and strengthens the negative stereotype about mental illness. It crystalizes a biased image of patients with a mental disorder and portrays them as a threat to society or difficult to deal with.

Despite playing a huge role in influencing people, the media continues to misinterpret mental illness.

There is no doubt that it is high time for mental health stigma to end.

We need to build a society where individuals are not scared or ashamed for seeking the help they need. There are various approaches to end mental health stigma. However, there is a key point each individual needs to understand. We need to understand that it is our responsibility as an individual to end mental health stigma and we must take the necessary steps required. This is the only way to achieve a society where individuals are not discriminated against based on their mental health condition.

Mental health stigma is the result of the lack of awareness and knowledge about mental health among people. To end the stigma, it is extremely important to educate people about mental health. There are various ways to educate individuals about mental health.

Educational campaigns are one way to do so. These campaigns focus on spreading awareness and educating individuals about mental health. In 2009, a mental health anti-stigma campaign was launched in England. It was led by the mental health charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness and is funded by the Department of Health, the Big Lottery Fund and Comic Relief. Educational campaigns often involve individuals who have suffered with mental illness to come forward and share their personal story, either through video clips or face to face in workshops, with an emphasis on hope and recovery. Such intervention can inspire people to seek help and also helps to change the perception of mental illness.

Educational institutes like schools, colleges, universities, etc. should also conduct workshops to spread awareness about mental health. If the future generation is rightfully informed about mental health at a young age, the chances of them contributing in the stigmatisation of mental health are lowered. In today’s competitive time, almost every person is living under stress. Therefore, educational institutions should also teach students to take care and prioritise their mental health. Institutions should encourage students to consult a clinical psychologist if they’re struggling with their mental health. Parents should also play an active role in educating their children about mental health.

The media needs to take responsibility for rightfully depicting mental health. Media should not be allowed to wrongfully portray mental illnesses. There needs to be strict rules and actions against the wrongful portrayal of mental illness by the media. The mass media and social media play a very influential role in people’s lives. They should use their platform in the right way by spreading awareness about mental health. The media should cover stories of individuals who have struggled with their mental health to give out hope to the ones who are presently struggling.

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I’M ALIVE By : KeErica Brown

Listening to these lyrics by Rich Tolbert Jr. impacted me differently when I had the chance to hear the song fully for the first time. If you are a suicide survivor, contemplating, overwhelmed, depressed, or just a human in general please give it a listen. The chorus says:

God knows the plans He has for me He knows the thoughts He thinks toward me And nothing is an accident I'm alive, because there's more This is all so true and encouraging! When you think about all of the things in your life, while some hurt (some more than others), there was a sprinkle of moments with joy, happiness, love, and peace. Moments that may last longer or shorter. Think about the future and how you are a determined person. You are alive because there is more to your story.

As I am well in my 30’s now and I think back to my teens and 20’s, time crept by so slow. The future seems so far away. People would always tell me that, “better days are ahead.” I couldn’t see it then. No way, no how.

As I am on the opposite spectrum of time, weeks and years are flying by!

I am able to truly reflect to know that there is more to the story…more to my story.

Oftentimes people share that suicide is "a permanent solution to a temporary problem.” I believe this is because there is no coming back if you succeed at committing suicide. The solution is permanent. There is not a do over. There are multiple ways to solve a problem and suicide is only one of them. It is also one that you cannot change. The reasons that people commit suicide vary tremendously from person to person.

Relationships.

Negative Self Talk.

Gambling.

Financial hardships.

Depression.

Bullying.

Career changes.

Addictions.

Shame.

Rape.

Drug Abuse.

Loss of a loved one.

Guilt.

While these may just be triggers, the final straw, or more than one thing happening at once, they are all a part of life. The list could really go on and on but if you look at each issue and ponder on others not listed, they have one thing in common. They are a moment in time and not a lifetime. They are things that you can change or work through with the help of others. They are things you can change by changing your mindset, environment, or influence.

Others who can help you change these temporary problems could be a

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therapist, psychiatrist, case manager, new circle of friends, financial planner, life coach, career coach, mentor, new romantic partner, personal development group, fitness trainer, church, contacts in a different part of the country. This list is equally as long as the list of possible reasons for thoughts of committing suicide. The bright side is, that there are specialized people that can help you turn that list of temporary problems into an alternate permanent solution that does not lead to suicide. While some are specialized, some are everyday people you have yet to meet! Give yourself a chance. I am writing from a place of firsthand experience. I am writing as a person looking back and reflecting. I am writing to share my perspective from the other side.

I tried to commit suicide three times. If I had succeeded, I would not have graduated college. I would not have had my own apartment. I would not have flown on a plane. I would not have gone to the beach. I would not have gotten a passport. I would not have had a surprise engagement. I would not have carried twins. I would not have enjoyed and loved my daughter. I would not have met a man that wants to love me and grow old with me. Nor would I have moved across the country. I would not have met new friends that became family. I would not have seen family members being born or their accomplishments. I would not have made amends with my dad who is currently in prison and shared my real thoughts and feelings with him. I would not have even applied the coping skills I learned with each hospital stay. And, I would not have had a genuine interaction and relationship with God. I share this passage in my book, “Your Mental Health Matters to Him” where I reveal details of my struggle with thoughts of suicide. I would have missed out on the life I am currently living if I had my way. Since the book was published, I have done more things that I would not have experienced. I am married now and purchased my first home! Life is the gift that keeps on giving! We must get back up and allow ourselves to receive the gift.

Thank God that He had other plans for me. I share this as encouragement for others to know that He has plans for them and you too and remember:

1. Better days are coming 2. You are alive, because there's more 3. There are millions of other people outside of the ones that you currently know 4. The people that are causing you pain now, could possibly not be a factor in your future and will be only a memory 5. Again, the negativity or pain that is happening now is a moment in time but not a lifetime.

RE-WRITE

YOUR STORY YNatural Radiance By : Melena Saddler LMHC, LPC, NCC

ou have acknowledged your trauma and you’re ready to move on. If only it were that simple. Trauma is no stranger to being bottled up hence why it shows up in different ways and in multiple areas of our lives. It’s the feeling you get during night sweats, nightmares, looking over your shoulder, walking alone at night, the uncomfortable feeling of having someone in your personal space etc. It just keeps on showing up.

What have you done about it? Have you bottled it up and ignored it? Have you sought professional help ? Or are therapists only for crazy people? Have you shared the incident with anyone or do you just keep it to yourself? I can tell you first hand, doing the work makes all the difference. By choosing to rewrite your story, you are choosing life. You are living to the best of your ability. You’re manifesting everything you want. YOU, yes YOU, are in full control of what you choose to do with your life.

Cultivating the life you truly desire is no easy task. The process of healing is HARD. It feels like a roller coaster. Some days you’ll feel confident in your progress and other days you will feel like you’re back peddling. It’s ok! The good news is you have the rest of your life to get it right. No one is perfect so stop trying to be. We all have our share of scars, some worse than others, but who’s comparing right?

Take time to focus on you, the real you. Who are you? What do you desire? What does healing look like for you? Is there someone that can help you get there? Meditate on these questions. What is your truth? ~ Melena Saddler LMHC, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH EMDR-trained ~

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Nekesa J. Smith CEO/ Founder Nekesa Natural Radiance Hair Loft www.nekesanrhairloft.com salon 404-835-2117

WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH? BY: TJ WOODARD

ay is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month.

This was established in 1949 to express the importance of mental health and wellness. Although Mental Health awareness should be a important every day, this is the month designated to provide awareness and education on mental illness and the stories or should I say, the experiences of those living with a mental illness. It is an opportunity to also provide practical strategies and ways to achieve and maintain mental wellness.

Why is this important?

Mental Health Awareness month is important because there has always been a stigma associated with mental health and mental illness to include suicidal ideation, anxiety, and depression. As we see these cases are on the rise and have been trending upward over the years, it is now obvious more than ever why this has to become a topic of discussion in every household, school, church, and yes, even the workplace. We see now that since the COVID-19 pandemic, more people have taken a hard look at their own mental health having to live life under the new normal of being confined to being home from work/school, working on the frontline in the midst of the pandemic, job loss, home schooling, fear, death and so much more. You see more public figures have taken a stance speaking out about their own mental health. This is why Mental Health Awareness Month is important. Although we have come a long way, there is still an great fight ahead in support of those who live with a mental illness or care for someone who does. This doesn’t stop with just a conversation but by continuously advocating for policies to make mental health a medical priority, establishing more mental health related programs and facilities that provide ongoing services for those in need.

How You Can Help Here are some ways we all can assist in breaking the stigma of mental illness:

will open the door to others being comfortable enough to share their own experiences. This dialogue will allow you to use your knowledge to assist those who may be struggling. Ensure that the conversation is judgement free with a sense of trust and security providing a safe and comfortable environment. Start with those around you. Frequently checking in on family, friends, and others is a great way to start.

Get Involved – There are organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Mental Health America (MHA), and We Fight Foundation (WFF) and many more doctors, psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, advocates, caregivers, and more that are putting in the work through workshops, seminars, events, podcasts, videos, interviews, magazines and publication, and more to promote mental health awareness. Partner with some of these organizations and see how you can contribute. You can host a meetup or an event, become a contributor writer for mental health publications, or share helpful information. These are just some ways but there are plenty more. Although May is Mental Health Awareness Month, do not let it stop here. The fight continues and so should you.

Get Help – This is the most important way you can help. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance or mental health treatment, get help. Getting help is one way to break the stigma that for too long has prevented mental health care and treatment.

We lose way too many people because of refusal to get help or to get involved simply because of the stigma that has been associated with mental health and illness. You are not in this alone. Help is readily available and through multiple platforms. Be sure to check out the resources provided. Put them somewhere easily accessible if needed like in a wallet, on a bulletin board, or in your car.

In summary, Mental Health Awareness Month is important, and you can contribute by breaking the stigma and having the uncomfortable but necessary conversations about mental health and mental wellness. Make your mental health a priority.

Get Educated – Learn more about mental illness and mental wellness. Get a better understanding of your own as well as those who are around you. This will help you to better understand the needs of those around you who may have a mental illness or may be experience periods of anxiety or depression. Learn the different types of mental illnesses and how to identify them.

Learn about the resources that are available.

Expand your knowledge on diet, fitness and medications associated with mental health and mental wellness. This will also provide a better understanding on how to communicate and respond to those why may have a mental illness.

It will also help you to understand mental wellness and how to manage your own.

Get Talking – Healthy conversations about your own mental health

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Therapist/Cinematherapy Shamanda.Burston@gmail.com www.ShamandaBurston.com

A forum for other people with ADHD to have a point of reference to find answers and discuss the disorder. rene@blackgirllostkeys.com @Black Girl, Lost Keys www.blackgirllostkeys.com

ATLANTA

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. www.empirecounseling.net

CALIFORNIA

Everyday Being

DR. NEKESHIA HAMMOND

INSPIRING YOUTHS

Online community providing information for those looking for a place to find healing. www.myeverydaybeing.com mjones@myeverydaybeing.com 202-957-7499 Founder, Marisa Jone

Psychologist and ADHD Specialist Hammond Psychology & Associates, Supports parents of children dealing with ADHD. DrNekeshiaHammond.com Dr.NHammond@gmail.com

A foundation built to give youth a voice through their various platforms, bullying workshops, youth panel discussions, as well as introducing mental health through workshops. www.inspireyouths.com info@inspireyouths.com Founder, Devon Lewis Buchanan, MSW

COLORADO

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PATRICE N DOUGLAS, LMFT, CAMS-I

FLORIDA

FLORIDA

WE FIGHT FOUNDATION

DESIGNED FOR ROYALTY

A nonprofit providing mentorship for at risk male and females youth and young adults to nurture their mental health in hope to reduce the risky behaviors, self-harm, selfmedicating or sadly suicide. www.wefightfoundation.org

(Queen/King/Princess Series) A mentorship program for women and men between the ages of 7-25.

For more information: info@tamikawoodard.com www.tamikawoodard.com

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ALEXIS ALTON Been working with children, adults and families for more than 15 years improving behaviors, relationships, educating, and providing therapeutic support and families. www.alexisalton.com alexis@alexisalton.com

MARYLAND

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MARYLAND

UPLIFT KINGS Support for Men Mental Health

BASHEA WILLIAMS, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW

Help clients heal from trauma and empower them to tap into their infinite God-given potential. www.vanitydawson.com Info@vanitydawson.com Founder: Vanity Dawson

MARYLAND

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upliftingkings20@gmail.com @letsupliftkings

MARYLAND

KENDRA HATHAWAY, MA, FLE, LMFT

CALEB'S KIDS An impactful suicide prevention and mental health awareness non-profit.

Founder & Exec. Director: Keisha Jackson. www.calebskids.org info@calebskids.org

C.A.C.T.U.S. CENTER

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Notably with African American women and young adults who are looking to improve their lives.

Positivetransformationpllc@gmail.com.

MICHIGAN

MICHIGAN

TOTALITY OF A WOMAN

Afro Caribbean Clinical Social Worker Trauma Treatment, DBT, Mindfulness Practice Kensho Psychotherapy Services, LLC. 41a W Merrick Rd #2, Valley Stream, NY 11580

Organization that takes a 360-degree approach focusing on the wellness of women, me and children. www.TotalityofaWoman.com Info@TotalityofaWomen.com TotalityofaWomen@gmail.com Founder, Stephanie Carnegie

NEW YORK

RWENSHAUN MILLER, MA, LPCA, NCC Licensed Therapist Dedicated to making mental health treatment more accessible; especially for males of color. www.rwenshaun.com info@rwenshaun.com

BLACK MENTAL WELLNESS CORP. Evidence-based information and resources about mental health and behavioral health topics from a Black perspective. www.blackmentalwellness.com info@BlackMentalWellness.com

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Treating issues such as anger management, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, sexual deviance through individual and family counseling. www.cactuscenternj.com cactuscenternj@gmail.com

Peace and Prosperity Professional Coaching Jason Phillips, MSW Licensed Therapist and Life Coach. www.pnpcoach.com info@pncoach.com

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Katrina Leggins, LCSW

HIP HOP SOCIAL WORKER, LLC

K. Nicole Writing, LLC Specialize: I use the CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) approach a lot and I work with many individuals who battle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life challenges. www.knicolewriting.com/

Foundation designed to motivate others by encouraging them to know they have what it takes to succeed, set goals, continue to be an advocate for mental health and help bring positive changes to the field of social work. www.hiphopsocialworker.com hiphopsocialworker@gmail.com Founder, Christopher Scott

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