Black women are often conceptualized as always ‘strong’ and this trope is also internalized by Black women (and the greater Black community) and care providers at times, which can result in negative health outcomes.

The topic supports the theme of Black Mental Health Week by creating space to acknowledge various mental health concerns Black women experience and risk factors, that part of ‘being yourself and being well’ is being authentic in vulnerability, help-seeking when experiencing concerns, and engaging in strategies which promote well-being and self-preservation.