September marks two critical observances in the mental health community—National Suicide Prevention Month and Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) Awareness Month. This month, the Wellness Garden brings attention to both issues, focusing on their impact within the Black community. I will also provide tools, resources, and information to promote awareness, prevention, and healing.
Suicide is a growing concern in the Black community. In recent years, rates of suicide among Black Americans, especially among Black men and adolescents, have risen sharply:
Suicide among Black men aged 25-34 has increased by over 40% in the last decade.
Black youth under 13 are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to their White peers.
1 in 5 Black youth have considered suicide, yet only 1 in 3 will receive mental health care.
These statistics reveal the urgent need for culturally sensitive and accessible mental health care for Black individuals. We must continue to break the stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations about emotional struggles.
Warning Signs of Suicide:
Feeling trapped, hopeless, or having no reason to live.
Increased substance use or risky behaviors.
Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities.
Severe mood swings, anger, or aggression.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help.
Resources:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line: Text "HELLO" to 741741
The Steve Fund: A mental health organization focused on young people of colorstevefund.org
Complex PTSD is an often-overlooked mental health condition that arises from prolonged exposure to traumatic experiences, often beginning in childhood. Unlike PTSD, which is usually tied to a single event, C-PTSD stems from ongoing trauma such as abuse, neglect, or living in violent environments. For many in the Black community, systemic racism, poverty, and historical trauma contribute to the prevalence of C-PTSD.
How C-PTSD Manifests in Adulthood:
Difficulty with Emotional Regulation: Intense anger, sadness, or fear that feels uncontrollable.
Negative Self-Perception: Feeling unworthy, damaged, or different from others.
Relationship Challenges: Difficulty forming or maintaining healthy, trusting relationships.
Hypervigilance: Constantly feeling on edge or expecting something bad to happen.
Dissociation: Disconnecting from the present moment or feeling detached from oneself.
Within the Black community, individuals with C-PTSD may face additional barriers to care, including mistrust of medical institutions, stigma around mental illness, and a lack of culturally competent providers.
How to Begin Healing from C-PTSD:
Seek Trauma-Informed Therapy: This can help individuals process their trauma and develop coping mechanisms.
Engage in Mindfulness Practices: Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help with emotional regulation.
Build a Support Network: Trusted friends, family, and community members can provide essential emotional support.
Resources:
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):nami.org
As a mental health provider, I am dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by our community. If you or a loved one needs support, please reach out to our office at wellnessgarden.pllc@gmail.com for compassionate and culturally informed care.
Together, let’s continue to raise awareness, promote mental well-being, and stand against stigma in the Black community.
This month, let’s come together to build awareness and break the silence around these critical issues. Remember, healing is possible, and help is available.
