Racial trauma is real.

The most obvious mental health impact is the development of symptoms such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, among others. Additionally, experts have reported that symptoms of race-based trauma present similarly to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is important to note that not everyone develops symptoms, and not everyone has experienced racial trauma however just as importantly the impact on community is profound.

Due to cultural stigma and barriers to care like insurance and jobs that provide time off work, black Americans are substantially less likely to receive mental-health treatment that other ethnic groups. This is particularly problematic because black Americans are 20% more likely to suffer from mental illness, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. For those who suffer from mental illness, the recycling of brutality and violence on the news may worsen symptoms.

This week we will discuss the generational impact of racial and community trauma as well as how we can create community healing spaces.

Join us each week for a​n interactive discussion about Mental Health ​and Wellness within the Black community.

Every week we will explore a different topic that addresses: the ​mental and physical impact of trauma, transforming the stigma around mental health, available support resources, and how we can heal from personal, racial and community traumas.

If there is a specific topic related to Black Mental Health and Wellness that you would like to hear discussed, send us your idea. If you have an area of expertise that you would like to share with the community, contact us. If you have a related organization or service that you provide, let's talk. We’d love to hear from you!

**Be advised that subject matter may not be appropriate for young children. Light refreshment will be served. There is free parking at the site.**