As we observe Suicide Prevention Month, it’s crucial to acknowledge the specific challenges faced by the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community when it comes to mental health and suicide prevention. For many in these communities, mental health struggles are stigmatized, minimized, or misunderstood, leaving individuals isolated in their pain. At the Urban Institute of Mental Health (UIMH), we are committed to changing this narrative and providing the tools for early intervention, awareness, and healing.

As we reach the four-year milestone for the Urban Institute of Mental Health (UIMH), we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey that has brought us here. From our humble beginnings to becoming a beacon of hope for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities, this journey has been nothing short of transformative.

Depression and anxiety are common mental health conditions that can significantly impact daily life. While medication can be an effective treatment option, many BIPOC individuals seek holistic approaches to manage their symptoms for a number of reasons to include medical racism; mental health stigma; and he capitalist structure of the healthcare system which plays a significant role in creating dependence on psychiatric medications. The holistic treatment approach focuses on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and can be used in conjunction with traditional therapies or as standalone options. This guide is specifically tailored for the BIPOC community, incorporating culturally relevant strategies and practices. These following practices can be incorporated into your daily life to improve your overall mental and emotional health.

Guatemala has shown me that success is not measured in material possessions or financial wealth, but rather in the freedom to live authentically, enjoy life's simple pleasures, and prioritize meaningful connections with loved ones. It has taught me to question societal norms and to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery.

The collapse of a major bridge is not just a physical catastrophe; it is a psychological trauma that reverberates through the collective consciousness of a city, state, and nation. The sudden loss of life, the fear and uncertainty surrounding the event, and the subsequent grief and mourning can have profound effects on mental health. This is not only true for the direct victims and their families but for all who witness or hear about the tragedy.

The current nationwide shortage of Vyvanse has raised concerns and shed light on a broader issue—the co-dependency many individuals have developed on psychiatric medications. Please don’t misunderstand me. I am a strong advocate of the use of psychotropic/psychiatric drugs, but ONLY when they are necessary.

The Antebellum Slave Period falsely embedded the belief that the purpose of Black bodies were to merely serve as forced labor and the empowerment of our White counterparts. During slavery, our ancestors were very conscious of their contributions in building and sustaining this country’s physical infrastructure and its systems of oppression.

Ujamaa, the principle of cooperative economics, is rooted in the idea of collective financial empowerment and sustainability within the Black community. It emphasizes the creation and support of businesses and initiatives that contribute to the economic development of the community as a whole.

Ujima, the third principle of Kwanzaa, emphasizes the expectation To build and maintain our community together and make our community’s problems our problems and to solve them together. Rooted in African philosophy, Ujima highlights the belief that individuals have a shared duty to collaborate in building and maintaining a strong, supportive community.

 Kujichagulia means self-determination. To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves. One of the most detrimental consequences of slavery and colonization was being stripped of our identity and sense of knowing who we are.

When one thinks of the holiday season, Kwanzaa is typically one that is not often spoke of nor celebrated; however, it is arguably one of the most empowering celebrations for the Black-American community. The holiday was founded by Maulana Ron Karenga in the year 1966 with one goal in mind: the empowerment and unity of Black people (Greenspan, 2023).

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and coming together with loved ones. However, for many BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals, it can also be a time filled with stress, pressure, and uncomfortable situations. Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining your peace, sense of self, and preserving your mental and emotional well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore 10 boundaries for BIPOC people to implement during the holidays, promoting liberation, self-respect, and avoid anyone from “catching these hands” during your holiday season.

Three years ago, we planted a seed with a vision: to bridge the profound gap between mental health services and marginalized communities. Today, that seed has grown into a flourishing tree, nurturing countless souls seeking refuge, understanding, and healing.