Breaking Barriers: Addressing Mental Health in Historically Excluded Communities

Hello, friends and fellow community members,

Mental Health Awareness Month is a pivotal time to spotlight the mental health challenges prevalent in all communities. This is especially crucial in one of the largest communities in the United States—Black and Brown communities. I am deeply passionate about and affected by this issue, as I am a part of the Black community and I wanted to share this month’s newsletter to explore the stigmas that deter people from seeking help. I also want to reaffirm that vulnerability is not a weakness but a courageous step toward healing.

Understanding the Stigma:

In many historically excluded communities, including Black and Brown communities, there is a deep-seated stigma associated with mental health concerns. These cultural barriers can discourage individuals from seeking the support they need, perpetuating a cycle where mental health challenges are silently borne rather than openly addressed.

Support Looks Different for Everyone:

Support can manifest in various forms—pastoral or individual prayer, professional counseling, mentorship, sponsorship, parental guidance, coaching from sports professionals, or simply the caring presence of friends. It's important to recognize and validate all these forms of support as legitimate and understand they are effective ways to manage and improve mental health.

The Impact of Racism and Socioeconomic Factors:

The pressures of racism and socioeconomic disparities compound the mental health challenges faced by many in our communities. These systemic issues can lead to heightened stress and mental fatigue, which disproportionately affect our mental well-being.

Personal Reflection:

Growing up, and even in recent times, I've witnessed and shared the notion that showing a need for mental health support was often misinterpreted as a weakness within my community. I now realize this perception could not be further from the truth.?

Acknowledging when we need help is a testament to our strength and resilience. It is a crucial step in breaking the cycles of suffering and isolation that many of us face while being told by our own communities that talking about mental health or seeking help is not okay (could we say tainted?). In these cases, our community should not be to blame as these responses often stem from a lack of access or privilege to knowledge and resources, or from self-projection.

Real-life examples I have seen in my coaching practice:

Many individuals have turned to prayer and religion to find solace and regain their composure in the face of oppressive systems. Prayer and religion often serve as a crucial coping mechanism, helping people center themselves and maintain their mental equilibrium amidst challenging environments. However, these same individuals sometimes face pushback or criticism for their reliance on spiritual practices. This lack of understanding and respect can exacerbate stress and anxiety, contributing to a deteriorating mental health situation. Recognizing and supporting diverse coping methods, including spiritual practices, is important to foster a healthier, more inclusive workplace and community.

I have also guided Black and Brown executives who were terminated despite excelling in their roles, leading them to battle feelings of hopelessness, imposter syndrome, and doubts about their capabilities. Often, women and people of color are given opportunities that seem poised for failure—positions others have deemed too challenging or precarious. This practice places them on what is known as a "glass cliff," where they are disproportionately exposed to the risk of failure.

The mental toll of being placed on a glass cliff is significant. Navigating a high-risk situation under intense scrutiny can exacerbate stress, anxiety, and depression. The constant pressure to perform without error and the isolation that comes with being in such precarious positions can severely impact mental health. Recognizing and addressing these unique pressures is crucial in supporting the mental wellness of those who find themselves on the glass cliff, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support systems to thrive in challenging environments.

Additionally, I've encountered individuals who felt compelled to diminish their “true” selves to conform to restrictive expectations at work or in society. This pressure to 'shrink' can significantly impact one's mental health, leading to decreased self-esteem and increased stress. However, with the right support and encouragement, these individuals have been able to break free from these constraints and fully embrace their potential. Recognizing and fostering an environment that supports individual growth and authenticity can dramatically improve mental well-being and productivity. We must all do our part to cultivate spaces where everyone feels they can step into their own power to express their true selves without fear of judgment or reprisal.

Fundamental Suggestions for Support:

• Self-Recognition: Start by acknowledging your feelings. Recognizing signs of mental distress is vital.
• Community Dialogue: Encourage open conversations on mental health within your circles. These discussions can help dismantle long-standing stigmas; it only takes one voice to speak up and inspire others to do the same. At the same time, when others speak up for you, it takes the pressure off of you and demonstrates open and active support.
• Education: Educate yourself and others about mental health concerns and the importance of seeking help.
• Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Embrace practices that foster mental wellness, such as mindfulness, exercise, outside support systems, and any other creative outlets. I understand that the closest family and friends are sometimes not open to giving space and engaging in these conversations. In that case, I encourage you to seek outside support groups, where others are willing to acknowledge, heal, and support each other. My mother always says, “Family does not have to mean that common blood runs among you.”

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month:

As we work towards this shared goal, I also want to highlight the importance of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, which we celebrate in May.?

This month holds special significance as we strive to foster deeper understanding, empathy, and celebration between our Black and Asian American communities. In light of recent events and longstanding challenges, we must come together to bridge divides, confront biases, and build strong connections.

It’s crucial to understand that at the end of the day, our shared mission is to create a safe space where everyone feels heard, valued, and celebrated. By acknowledging our differences and embracing our commonalities, all communities of different backgrounds can cultivate a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect together.

Conclusion:

This Mental Health Awareness Month, let's challenge the misconceptions about mental health in our communities. Seeking help should be viewed as a sign of strength, not a weakness.?

That being said, I urge my fellow Black and Brown communities, and other individuals of historically excluded backgrounds, to end the cycle of generational trauma and foster a more inclusive, celebratory, and safe space for our future generations.

As this edition of Catalyze and Cultivate Monthly comes to a close, I also encourage everyone to reflect inward and ask yourselves this—when did you last check in with a friend, family member, coworker, or yourselves to educate or seek help??

Together, we can create a brighter future for generations to come.

Yours in the Struggle,

Founder and CEO

Catalyze and Cultivate Consulting

Events & News Roundup:

Bill Wilson Center’s Gala

On May 16, I had the pleasure of attending the Bill Wilson Center’s Gala. Bill Wilson Center is a nonprofit community-based organization providing housing, education, counseling, and advocacy services for children, adolescents, adults, and families in Santa Clara County.

I’m grateful for hearing powerful testimonies from resilient young people who highlight the essential work being done to uplift those who often feel forgotten.?

Special thanks to Janikke Klem from Heritage Bank of Commerce for sponsoring my ticket and providing me the opportunity to witness the center's dedication to providing nurturing environments and critical mental health services.?

Reconnecting with old friends and making new ones, all united by a common purpose, was truly inspiring. I look forward to making this gala a yearly tradition and supporting the Bill Wilson Center's continued success.

City Harvest New York Leadership Cohort

On May 8, I attended a truly memorable opportunity to work with the inspiring leadership cohort sponsored by City Harvest , an organization I’ve had the pleasure of serving with a mission to end hunger in communities throughout New York City.?

I also had a lovely time meeting with both familiar faces and new leaders who are passionately tackling similar challenges. The conversations were enlightening, and the shared experiences enriched our understanding.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made my visit exceptional. Your hospitality and vibrant community spirit indeed provided the red carpet treatment. I’m excited about the connections we've strengthened and the new ones we've formed. Let's continue to collaborate and drive meaningful change together!

Batwa Tribe Benefit Gala, Hosted by African Road

On April 5, I attended a gala hosted by African Road , an organization dedicated to fostering enduring partnerships with local Changemakers in East Africa, focusing on the well-being and progress of communities. Their commitment to people-centered strategies is truly inspiring.?

The proceeds from the event benefited the Batwa tribe. African Road is helping change the lives of families one community at a time.

Sneak Peek Ahead

“AI for Social Impact: Maximizing Nonprofit Fundraising” Session Hosted by AFP-Silicon Valley

Date and Time: Wednesday, May 29, 2024 from 12 p.m.-1 p.m. PST

Remote Session (Link to register below)

As a board member of AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals), I’d love to welcome you to our next session, “AI for Social Impact: Maximizing Nonprofit Fundraising''. This discussion will be a great opportunity for fundraising professionals interested in utilizing artificial intelligence to hear insights from Stefan Youngblood, a celebrated Social Impact AI Entrepreneur. In this virtual fireside chat, attendees will discover how AI technologies can revolutionize fundraising strategies for nonprofit organizations. Attendees will also gain insight into ethical considerations, balancing technology with personal connections while exploring recommended AI tools for effective fundraising.

The cost to attend is $35 for AFP members and $50 for non-members.?

Please find more info and register to attend here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ai-for-social-impact-maximizing-nonprofit-fundraising-registration-894055212207?aff=oddtdtcreator ?

Shoutouts & Testimonials

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we spotlight the following individuals. They are deeply valued by their communities for their work in championing awareness and support for mental health and well-being, especially for other individuals of historically excluded backgrounds.

Celebrating Milan Balinton, Executive Director at African American Community Service Agency (AACSA)

Milan Balinton is a dear friend of mine who leads the efforts of the African American Community Services Agency (AACSA) to preserve the dignity and culture of a diverse Black Community and provide services that serve Santa Clara communities and beyond.

The African American Community Service Agency (AACSA), founded in 1978, is one of Silicon Valley's only African American cultural centers. Its mission is to provide quality educational, cultural, social, and recreational programs, services, and activities to perpetuate and strengthen African American identity. AACSA's membership is open to everyone, regardless of race, religion, age, or disability and The Agency's diverse activities and services offer a natural gateway to African American life.

Milan supports AACSA’s programs in Health & Wellness, one of the key pillars at the core of AACSA’s mission.

Celebrating Gabriela "Gabby" Chavez Lopez, Community Catalyst and founding CEO/Executive Director of Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley (LCSV)

Gabriela “Gabby” Chavez-Lopez is a respected colleague of mine who is dedicated to uniting all communities and advocating for inclusion, understanding, and collaboration across individuals of all backgrounds.

As the founding CEO/Executive Director of the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley , she leads efforts to empower Latinas through sisterhood, leadership, and civic engagement, aiming to address economic and political disparities. Gabby has helped expand initiatives addressing workforce development, economic mobility, leadership, and civic engagement, employing culturally sensitive strategies.?

Having resided in Silicon Valley for 20+ years, Gabby champions community organizing as a transformative force, leveraging past achievements to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all individuals.

Celebrating Evariste Ndikumana, Leader of the Batwa Indigenous People and Founder of ASSEJEBA

Evariste Ndikumana is an honorable friend of mine and a leader of the Batwa indigenous people. The Batwa are a traditional hunter-gatherer group indigenous to central Africa; today, they are the most radically excluded ethnic group in Burundi.?

Evariste was the second Twa person in his country to complete university and one of few to serve in the Burundian parliament. Together with his non-profit team called ASSEJEBA , he passionately represents and serves the Batwa people. Evariste also partners with African Road by providing ID Kits to the Batwa community—ID cards are a vital identity marker in Burundian society. This partnership also provides projects and training to build capacity in the Batwa community.

I am excited to join Evariste on a mission trip to Batwa and the end of the year with African Road to help carry out our shared mission and meet, provide support to, befriend, and celebrate the Batwa people.