Supporting the Mental Health of Black Youth: Building Resilience Through Connection
- Shanique Edwards
- Mar 31
- 4 min read
The mental health of our Black youth is an essential foundation for their future success and well-being. Yet, due to systemic barriers, cultural stigma, and the unique challenges of navigating their identity in a world often marked by discrimination, many Black youth face mental health struggles that go unaddressed.
As parents, caregivers, and community members, it’s our responsibility to create safe spaces where our youth feel seen, heard, and supported. By recognizing the signs of mental health challenges and starting compassionate conversations, we can help Black youth thrive emotionally and mentally, even in the face of adversity.
The Unique Mental Health Challenges of Black Youth
Black youth often face additional stressors that impact their mental health, including:
Racial Discrimination: Experiencing racism, whether overt or subtle, can lead to feelings of invisibility, anger, or hopelessness.
Identity Struggles: Balancing cultural identity with societal expectations can create internal conflicts.
Systemic Inequities: Limited access to mental health resources, coupled with the stigma around seeking help, prevents many Black youth from getting the support they need.
Trauma: Intergenerational trauma and exposure to community violence or injustice can have lasting effects on mental well-being.
Signs of Mental Health Challenges in Black Youth
Mental health struggles don’t always look the same for everyone, but there are some specific signs to consider when it comes to Black youth:
Withdrawal: Avoiding friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed.
Changes in Mood: Persistent sadness, irritability, or anger that seems out of character.
Physical Symptoms: Complaints of headaches, stomach pains, or fatigue without a clear medical cause.
Decline in School Performance: A sudden drop in grades or loss of interest in academics.
Increased Aggression or Defiance: Acting out as a way to cope with underlying stress or pain.
Identity Struggles: Expressing confusion or frustration about their racial or cultural identity.
Hypervigilance: Constantly feeling on edge or overly aware of potential dangers, often linked to trauma or racism.
Avoidance of Discussions About Race: Showing discomfort when race or discrimination is discussed, which may indicate internalized stress or fear.
Let’s Talk About it…
Talking about mental health can feel daunting, especially in communities where it has historically been a taboo subject. However, open and honest conversations are the first step toward healing and support. Here’s how parents and caregivers can begin:
1. Create a Safe Space
Let your child know that it’s okay to share their feelings without fear of judgment or punishment. Ensure they feel heard and validated.
Example: “I’ve noticed you’ve been quieter than usual. I want you to know it’s okay to talk to me about anything on your mind.”
2. Use Culturally Affirming Language
Acknowledge the unique challenges they face as Black youth and affirm their identity.
Example: “I know it can be tough navigating everything that comes with being a young Black person today. You are so strong, and I’m here to support you.”
3. Share Your Own Experiences
If appropriate, share your own struggles or challenges with mental health to normalize the conversation.
Example: “When I was younger, I sometimes felt overwhelmed too. It’s okay to have those feelings, and it helps to talk about them.”
4. Use Media and Stories
Books, movies, or news stories can be a gentle way to open up discussions about emotions and mental health.
Example: “That story we read about the young girl overcoming challenges really made me think. How do you feel when you face tough times?”
5. Encourage Professional Support
Normalize seeking help from therapists or counselors, emphasizing that mental health care is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Example: “Sometimes we need someone outside of the family to help us work through our feelings. Would you like me to help you find someone to talk to?”
Additional Tips for Supporting Black Youth
Promote Cultural Pride: Help your child connect with their heritage through books, music, art, and traditions.
Advocate for Representation: Ensure they see positive role models who look like them in their schools, media, and community.
Teach Coping Skills: Encourage practices like journaling, mindfulness, or deep breathing to manage stress.
Build Community: Surround your child with a strong, supportive network of family, friends, and mentors.
Watch for Bias in Schools: Be an advocate if you notice disparities or discrimination in their educational environment.
Supporting the mental health of our Black youth requires intention, empathy, and action. As a community, we can help our young people feel empowered, understood, and resilient in the face of challenges.
Our youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the light of today. Let’s give them the tools, love, and support they need to shine.
If you’re looking for resources or workshops to better support Black youth and their families, feel free to browse our website. Together, we can create a world where our children feel seen, valued, and supported to thrive.
About Shanique Victoria Edwards
Shanique Victoria Edwards, BSc, MDiv, and Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), is the founder of Shanique Victoria Psychotherapy & Wellness, a virtual private practice committed to providing compassionate and transformative mental health care to all individuals. While Shanique works with a diverse range of clients, her practice has a committed focus on supporting Black and racialized individuals through culturally relevant and faith-informed care. She is passionate about creating safe spaces where clients can explore their mental health, navigate challenges, and build resilience.
Shanique specializes in areas such as racial trauma recovery, mental wellness, and integrating spirituality into therapy. Her work is particularly informed by an Afro-Caribbean lens, ensuring that her services are culturally affirming and grounded in an understanding of her clients’ lived experiences.
In addition to her private practice, Shanique is a sought-after speaker, trainer, and facilitator. She has delivered workshops and presentations on topics including racial trauma and mental health, cultural competency in mental health care, navigating burnout and compassion fatigue, and promoting inclusivity in clinical practice. She has also developed programs on Africentric crisis intervention, making mental health services safe for Black and racialized individuals, and fostering healing and resilience in marginalized communities.
Through her writing, speaking engagements, and community collaborations, Shanique advocates for equity and inclusion while empowering individuals to embrace their unique paths toward healing and growth. Her work bridges cultural understanding with evidence-based practices, making mental health care accessible and affirming for all.
For more resources and to learn more about Shanique’s work, visit www.shaniquevictoria.com.
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