In a world with increasing political tension, the rise of social media, and constant need to compete, self-care has become more than just a social media tag. It is an absolute must to survive.

It is estimated that approximately 2 New Yorkers commit suicide daily. This past week alone we’ve seen Chef, writer, and TV host, Anthony Bourdain, and designer, Kate Spade take their own lives. To the outside world, these two individuals were perceived as having it all; no financial worries, a safe home, physically healthy and on the surface, all things seemed happy. Now with the loss of two celebrities and the increased media coverage, there will be an increase in the awareness of depression and mental health. However, I have to wonder what about the 2 other New Yorkers that took their lives today? Were they artists, teachers or single moms? Were they individuals all feeling the weight of New York’s rising rents? Or were they just two souls longing for a place to truly be themselves?

For the average New Yorker that cannot afford a therapist or have the time to devote solely to expressing ourselves what outlets are there for release?

As a Harlem resident, I’ve witnessed first hand as depression made its way uptown through the rise of gentrification. It has been a bittersweet journey for those here. Over the past 10 years, I’ve watched my neighborhood grow and expand. Now hosting a Whole Foods, PC Richards and Son, Bed Bath and Beyond and so many more downtown big brands. But with that expansion, I’ve also seen the closing of many small local businesses, and the casual shift of neighbors to those persons who can afford to pay a bit more. I’ve witnessed an area known for its artistic renaissance lose its writers, artists, actors, and dancers because of an increase in rent. But most significantly I’ve seen the very people who created what is known as the “Harlem vibe” fall victim to anxiety and depression at the mere mention of a lease renewal.

To someone living in Harlem, the annual lease renewal can mean one of two things…1. Paying upwards of 20% more than your current rent or 2. Uprooting your family and moving. The anxiety and stress caused by this seemingly routine transaction have left many residents in Harlem coping with mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression.

For Harlem residents, it has become a saving grace to find places that allow you to work on both your mental and physical well-being. But sadly these slowly diminishing places will only be available if we continue to support and preserve the local small businesses. Small businesses are what historically have embodied the spirit of a community and allowed Harlem residents to continue to exist on their own terms. For example, new fitness/wellness studios, such as Harlem Cycle has a no judgment policy and goes as far as having no mirrors in their studio. Daily they serve the teacher, writer, executive, painter and everyday people, making them all feel equal and welcomed. This small community focused fitness studio also offers community wellness events that not only focus on fitness but nutrition while making sure to support local Harlem based charities.

In this rapidly changing environment, mental health must become a priority for everyone. Keeping alive small businesses that serve the local community both physically and mentally is a key way to weather through this rapidly changing landscape.

Gentrification in Harlem

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