“Mental health has always been a significant aspect of my life.
Growing up in a family where mental illness was present, but not discussed,
I witnessed firsthand the struggles that people with mental illness endure.
My mother, grandmother and great-grandmother all suffered from schizophrenia. This experience led me to understand the stigma and isolation that individuals with mental illness face, particularly those who are Black and face systemic racism. I also recognized the limited resources available to assist those struggling with mental health. This realization sparked a deep desire within me to bring healing resources back to our community and make it a normal topic of conversation."
How to Find a BIPOC Therapist
How to Take Care of Your Mental Health
Their Mental Health
Credits
WRITERS/EDITORS: Chelsea Candelario
PRODUCER: Chelsea Candelario, Emily Vandelanotte
DESIGNER: Dasha Burobina, Paula Boudes
Delilah Antoinette
community leader and founder of The Black Girl’s Healing House
1.
CREATE A LIST OF WHAT
YOU’RE LOOKING FOR
Do you need someone to help you manage your anxiety? How about someone who understands generational trauma? Maybe a professional who can help you address microaggressions? Come up with a wish list that you can cross-check against.
2.
SEARCH THROUGH
BIPOC-SPECIFIC DIRECTORIES
These directories can lead you to virtual or in-person services, while letting you narrow down your selections based on type of therapy, background and even financial assistance.
3.
PUT ON YOUR
INTERVIEWING HAT
You found a few candidates. Great! Now, it’s time to put on your detective cap and ask your potential therapist some questions. Don't be afraid to reach out and ask them a few things before setting up an appointment.
4.
BE PREPARED FOR
TRIAL AND ERROR
Look, finding a BIPOC therapist is like speed dating. Sometimes, you'll find “the one” and other times you might have to go back to the drawing board.
5.
IF THERAPY IS
EXPENSIVE…
Sessions can be costly and there are only a few insurance companies that will cover it (or not at all). Luckily, there are some BIPOC directories and nonprofit organizations that are willing to offer financial assistance.
Chelsea Candelario
Associate Editor
Destinee Scott
Assistant Editor of Sales & Deals
Nakeisha Campbell
Associate Editor of News & Entertainment
8 Questions BIPOC Patients Should Always Ask Their Doctor
According to a Black physician.
27 BIPOC Mental
Health Resources
From therapy directories
to wellness apps.
Let’s Talk About Black Men and Mental Health
You are not alone.
read more
read more
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YOU GOOD?
LET’S CHECK OUR MENTAL HEALTH
“OK, if I’m not watching a Harry Potter or Marvel film for the millionth time, silly food competition shows always relax me. There’s something about Nailed It, Cupcake Wars or Foodtastic that makes me smile and puts my mind at ease.”
“I find peace and comfort by dancing around my place when no one is watching. Just losing myself in the music and moving my body like I don't have a care in the world feels good in the moment and after.”
“I write my thoughts in the form of really long, honest letters to God. Then I’ll meditate on one of my favorite verses from the Bible. It feels so cathartic to spill my deepest thoughts out on paper, and replace it with an encouraging message helps me get out of my funk.”
How PureWow Editors Prioritize