May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the importance of emotional well-being. But for the Community Healing Network (CHN), promoting mental health and fostering emotional resilience is a year-round mission. CHN goes beyond just raising awareness; we provide a vital space for healing, growth, and empowerment, particularly within the Black community. It takes a lot of work and time to continuously defy the lie of White superiority and Black inferiority.
Centuries of anti-Black racism have inflicted deep wounds on our collective psyche. CHN understands the profound impact of racial trauma and offers tools and resources specifically designed for Black people to heal. Through programs like Emotional Emancipation Circles, CHN fosters a safe space for individuals to process these experiences, cultivate self-love, and dismantle negative internal narratives.
We recognize that mental health is more than just the absence of illness. We equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to navigate life’s challenges with greater strength and resilience. This includes workshops on managing stress, healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering positive relationships, all grounded in practices from our collective African heritage.
Isolation can exacerbate mental health struggles. CHN fosters a sense of belonging by creating community experience activities. Lunch breaks, workshops, and other gatherings create a network of support, allowing individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences. These connections are vital for combating feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of shared purpose.
CHN doesn’t just address the individual; we advocate for systemic change. By raising awareness about the mental health effects of racism, CHN empowers the Black community to demand a just and equitable society. This advocacy work can have a ripple effect, leading to positive changes in policies and practices that impact mental health outcomes for all.
CHN recognizes that mental health is a lifelong journey. We offer programs and resources that cater to different age groups, ensuring that support is available throughout a person’s life. This investment in the future aims to equip younger generations with the tools they need to not only heal from past trauma but also disrupt cycles of mental health struggles within their families and communities.
Community Healing Network’s work extends far beyond the confines of Mental Health Awareness Month. We provide vital services throughout the year, offering a beacon of hope and a path to emotional well-being for our Black community. By addressing racial trauma, building resilience, fostering connection, advocating for change, and investing in the future, CHN empowers the Black community to thrive, not just survive. We are here for you.
Leon Bailey – Vice Chairman of the Board
Community Healing Network Executive Committee
