We have been in a global pandemic which resulted in a 365-day quarantine. Our lives have changed and it has been a bittersweet adjustment. Now everyone is wearing masks and arguing which vaccine is better than the other. Hundreds of people have lost their jobs, and thousands have lost their lives. Almost every day someone is dealing with grief, financial debt, and it is rare anyone in this country has not been mentally affected. We’re still facing a range of issues that has an effect on our mental health. Since 1949 May has been known for acknowledging and encouraging Americans to check on their mental. Especially since COVID-19 has impacted the world of all ages, that has been struggling with various mental health issues.  People must take their mental health into consideration by practicing self-care or seeking therapy. Self-care should be done it at home though, people should participate in self-care activities at work and school. You don’t know what that person sacrificed or dealt with on their commute today. I believe it’s always necessary, especially after working in elementary school for two years to ask “how are you doing” because you’d be surprised what a person is dealing with and how many people never took the moment to consider if they’re okay. I’ve learned that not only adults experience anxiety, PTSD, or depression. We have to stop and take a moment every now and then to ask our peers, neighbors, and family members “how are you?” “are you okay?”. If the person doesn’t answer honestly, that’s okay it’s nothing to take personally. I bet they appreciate you noticed they were not their usual selves today. Some people just want to be acknowledged, considered, and appreciated. Yet, talking to friends, family or even a therapist is beneficial and relieving. No one wants to feel like a bottle of Pepsi that has been dropped numerous times waiting to be opened. Being a prisoner of your own mind is scarier than being in actual solitary confinement.  

If interested in therapy here are two great sources for Black women and men. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance provider to find out what therapist takes your insurance. There’s nothing to be embarrassed or scared about. Be better than your past generations and peers, and go get the help you need. If you need someone to talk to, I’m no expert but I’ve experienced a lot thus far my inbox is always available. You’re not alone. 

IT’S OKAY NOT TO BE OKAY, NO ONE IS ‘NORMAL’. THERE IS NO ‘NORMAL’. 

I’ve experienced depression three times so far throughout my life, and I’m only 25. If you know me personally you’re probably thinking “no way, not Kyla she’s smiling and laughing every time I see her”. Yeah, but did you take time to ever ask me if I’m okay? No. (That’s okay though, I have my support team and appreciate them dearly) I’m expressing this because I want people to know depression comes in all forms, not everyone who is dealing with it will act like Squidward from Spongebob or Eeyore from Winnie-the-Pooh. Sometimes we’re laughing and joking all day wearing a fake smile yet; easily irritated, haven’t had an appetite in days, can’t sleep longer than 30 minutes to an hour and the list continues. So CHECK. ON. YOUR. LOVE. ONES. It takes 30 seconds to send a text or call. You’re not being nosey or annoying, you’re being a great loving friend.

Hope my resources and words of light bring someone peace. 

Peace and Love.

– Via Kyla