when amanda shields revealed in her much-discussed Interview Shannon Sharpe She quickly elaborated that she had autism as a self-diagnosis, but the reaction was swift and not always kind. Indeed, many doctors would say that it is unwise and unhelpful to determine that we are sick based on our own research. Although the SEAL’s personal health concerns no one but her, she opened the door to a broader conversation.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, Time that could be spent expanding education and reducing stigma around mental health issues.And black Americans Steadily overcoming longstanding barriers Despite the stigma against receiving mental health care, we still have a ways to go. Practically everyone knows a little about anxiety, depression, and even intergenerational trauma. But there are also many illnesses, such as autism, that are still not really discussed, let alone diagnosed, in the Black community. Here are some mental health conditions that Black therapists say require greater understanding and acceptance.
autism
Research on autism, especially adult, is growing.Still, autism in a general sense wide range of conditions This can include challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication, according to the Autism Speaks organization. Usually diagnosed in children –– Approximately 1/36th Although the number of reported cases is increasing each year, and because the disease is so widespread, we are also learning more about how it manifests in adults.Research also says that more common among black and Hispanic childrenSo all the more reason to increase education about it and reduce the stigma within our communities. “We haven’t been told anything about it or we don’t know what it is. We’re hearing from elders that children are being rude and misbehaving,” he said. Masu. Dr. Tema Bryant,psychologist. “That’s why they can respond in such a harsh manner. Some might say that parents don’t have good control over their children.” She says autism can manifest as sensory issues. He gave the example of a girl with autism who was rocking back and forth in church with her hands over her ears when the choir became very loud. “Some church mothers try to reprimand her because they think it’s offensive for her to cover her ears when the choir sings. Therefore, raising awareness is very important. It is important and we need to think not only for the families themselves, but also for our communities so that we can respond with compassionate support.”
vernon and venice moore, Black therapists based in Connecticut say at least more black parents are opening up. hearing Most people are not yet ready to fully plan and address the possibility that their child may have autism. And while Vernon, like Shields, has seen more adults self-diagnose themselves with the disease, he said he doesn’t recommend it. “As the topic of mental health has become a little less taboo, people can now look at the traits and symptoms and characteristics of autism and say, ‘That’s me.’ It is important to note that all types of mental health problems have characteristics, characteristics, and symptoms that do not necessarily mean that you have a diagnosis. Because if you compare people to people who are self-diagnosed, their functioning on tasks is probably very different.”
ADHD
ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, This is also a commonly misunderstood and incorrectly self-diagnosed condition. You’ve probably heard someone say, “I’m so ADHD” because they misplaced their keys. However, like autism, ADHD can manifest in many different ways (although it is often characterized by difficulty concentrating and fidgeting). ADHD is often accompanied by emotional problems, mood control problems, reckless behavior, and impulsivity that can cause people to blurt things out at inappropriate times or take unnecessary risks. Black people are significantly more likely to go undiagnosed; Article published in Howard University magazine Note. The Moores said that although awareness is growing, more needs to be learned and there is often a reluctance to treat it. Vernon said it can be frustrating for people who have a loved one with ADHD. However, some people may not have had the patience for someone suffering from ADHD. And if it’s not talked about or someone knows about it, it can lead to conflict. ” Bennis says she often sees black clients skeptical of drug treatment. “When it comes to medicine, [professional of color in her office]will often say, “You’re not alone in this,” and let them know you can try it too. [medication]. That doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. It’s just something that can support you. ”
borderline personality disorder
“In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in talk about gaslighting, narcissistic behavior, and personality disorders,” Bennis says. It just sits there without any understanding behind it, and that’s something you often see in Lifetime movies. ” Of all the under-discussed mental health issues in the world, borderline personality disorder is certainly one of the most stigmatized. This is one of those conditions that people can unkindly lump into the realm of “insane” without understanding what’s really going on. It can manifest as emotional instability, impulsivity, wide swings in mood, outbursts of anger, and sudden infatuation with others, but these feelings are quickly abandoned. Bennis says this can look like bipolar disorder, but with talk therapy and counseling, patients can receive an accurate diagnosis and support. “The truth is, it’s in our community, too,” she says. “And very few of my clients with borderline personality disorder were actually aware that they had borderline personality disorder. If you look at what it is, it’s different from bipolar disorder.”
According to therapists, all of these issues can be treated to help a person heal and grow, but what cannot be addressed cannot be resolved. That’s why everyone, including us, must, without stigma or shame, show compassion for those who are suffering and seek professional help when necessary. “The people in your life are mirrors,” she says. “They’ll show you. Whether you’ve been diagnosed or not, your actions will show up, so don’t resist. ‘Okay, you can finally show up and get the help you need.’ Please look at it like this.
Helpful resources
Need help? Here are some resources to get support.
therapy for black girls
