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Let’s talk about mental health.

A topic that has been previously tabooed in the Black community is making its way to the forefront of discussions and being catapulted to first-class priority. As we grow, so does our awareness of mental health issues, alongside activism in supporting the mental flourishing and preservation of our people. Discussions that were once never acknowledged are becoming regular topics at our dinner tables, lunch dates, places of employment and in our friend groups.

While one can acknowledge mental health is an issue that scopes beyond racial boundaries, it's no surprise that Black Americans are exponentially ailed by this issue but have been less prone to seek help. The stigma associated with mental health issues, or the implication that once took over the probability of seeking assistance, continues to makes its way out of our community, substituted for treatment and safe spaces. While we continue break out of the physical chains of demographic and societal detriments, we are freeing our mental chains as well.

Recently, this topic rose to the celebrity limelight when award winning R&B artist, Summer Walker, shared the effect social anxiety has on some aspects of her life. In a post she made on November 12, Walker shared the importance of self-preservation when she announced she will be cutting her tour short.

For the most part, this post was met with positive responses filled with support and understanding, but still there were some who suggested she was not being sincere and accused her of pretense. More and more, celebrities are beginning to share their connection to emotional and mental issues that highlight the commonality we all share. However, one can understand the apprehension when their transparency is often met with ignorance.

Summer’s public acknowledgement and treatment of the issues she fights mainly exposed that mental health is not an issue of class or socioeconomic status. It is an issue that discriminates against and pardons no one. Even more so, her bravery highlights that self-preservation is a must and should take priority at all times.

Many people shared how they identified and sympathized with Summer’s fight and supported her choice to shorten the tour. As mentioned, even with the positive support that flowed through, one could not help but notice the film of disrespect. In another Instagram post, the singer took the time to respond to comments that were less than understanding and further dived into the issue that has affected her since age six.

Summer is rallied with support from the phenomenal, Golden Globe winning, Taraji P Henson. The actress showered her with support during this fight while also acknowledging the work that is left to do. Her comment read, “It’s stigma baby and it is killing US!!!!!!!!! You are brave. I adore you!!!”

Bravery, indeed, is the sentiment of anyone who expresses their struggle with any mental health issue. Summer’s post, for the majority, continued to be met with sympathy and allies. While this is just one instance of the effects and the prominence of mental health, it is yet another discussion at the table, it is another step towards the irradiation of stigma and exclusion.