While mental health within the Black community has been fueled by negative stigmas for years, the conversation has shifted in recent years to include education, awareness and resources for those in need.
The topic is finally getting the attention it needs, and we love to see our community taking control and better care of ourselves.
According to Mental Health America, “despite rates being less than the overall U.S. population, major depressive episodes increased from 9 percent to 10.3 percent in Black and African American youth ages 12-17, from 6.1 percent to 9.4 percent in young adults ages 8-25, and from 5.7 percent to 6.3 percent in the 26-49 age range between 2015 and 2018.”
So how do we bridge the gap? By educating our community and providing resources that are readily available such as therapy. And luckily, there are ways to utilize help similar to therapy at your fingertips!
Podcasts that discuss mental health issues are becoming increasingly popular in our community. According to Rain News, over 36% of the Black Population listens monthly (40% in the whole population) and 26% percent listen weekly.
Here are six podcasts that focus on therapy and starting necessary conversations around mental health.
This podcast is hosted by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed therapist based in Atlanta, Georgia. She gives excellent advice on several topics that Black women face daily, ranging from colorism, racial trauma, the importance of boundaries, how to thrive as a Black women business owner, etc. Dr. Harden is knowns for pushing for representation throughout the podcast and amplifying the stories of Black women that are often overlooked. She frequently invites other Black mental health professionals on to give advice regarding any topic she may not have expertise in. Check it out on her website, iTunes, or Spotify.
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Licensed therapist Sheena Tubbs uses her podcast platform to provide resources to overcome trauma, codependency, attachment, love addiction, love avoidant habits and much more. Black Girls Heal offers practical advice and support with breaking unhealthy habits that every woman should tune into! Check out her podcast on iTunes and Spotify.
Source: CLEO TV / CLEO TV
3. Affirm
The Affirm podcast was created by licensed therapist Davia Roberts, who believes women of color should have a place to affirm their worth, value mental health, and seek wholeness. If you are looking for your #BlackGirlMagic tribe, check it out!
Source: CLEO TV / CLEO TV
4. Getting Down With Jade and Keia
Jade and Keia snatch edges every week because they discuss all things adulting! While their podcast is not mental health-focused, they discuss the peaks and valleys of being an adult. In a world where everyone is “stuntin’ for the gram,” it is important to hear from people who are transparent about how they navigate through life. We need to hear people say, “I do not know what I am doing and I am still figuring out.” They’ve created a community where we can be real, laugh and even cry together. And vulnerability does wonders for your mental health. Check it out on Apple Podcasts, or Spotify.
Source: CLEO TV / CLEO TV
If you are looking for a podcast that discusses mental health, the hottest TV shows, music and you want a good laugh, The Friend Zone is that podcast! The hosts Dustin, Fran, and Assante provide different perspectives, but together they create some serious magic. Dustin will have you slapping your knees and crying from laughter. Assante will bring you the dopest music and has a playlist for almost every occasion. And Fran, the wellness guru will get your life all the way together and have you all in your feelings. Check it out!
Source: CLEO TV / CLEO TV
Calling all Black entrepreneurs! If you are not listening to Minding My Black Business podcast, you are missing out. Dr. JaNae Taylor is a therapist in southern Virginia and has provided a space for Black entrepreneurs to talk about all things business, self-care and mental health. See more details here!
Source: CLEO TV / CLEO TV
