mental health

Mental health is wealth

Written By: Chelsea Davis-Bibb, Ed.D. In recent news, there was a father who shot his son in self-defense and killed him. Sadly, his son was battling drug addition and a mental illness. It was noted that the father had previously tried to get his son help. As a parent, it is our responsibility to protect our children and do the best that we can in raising them. As a parent myself, I can’t imagine the pressure and fear this father was going through in that moment, and the mental toll he will have to live with for the rest of his life. I can’t help but wonder if his son had gotten the help he needed, would the result have ended differently. Unfortunately, this is only one of many mental illness cases that have occurred over the years. In the last few years, the world has been going though unprecedented times. We have all had to deal with COVID-19, the loss of loved ones, unemployment, financial struggles, and so much more. With everything going on in the world, it is important that we are taking care of ourselves and focusing on our mental health, especially in the black community. When was the last time you took care of your mental health? In the Black community, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) mentioned that only one in three Black adults receive the mental care they need. There are many reasons as to why Blacks are hesitant to taking care of their mental health. First, there is a negative perception towards those who may have a mental illness. NAMI discussed how 63% of Black people think that having a mental illness is a sign of weakness. This negative perception makes it hard for those who are yearning for help to reach out in fear of the judgment that may come with it. Second, religion is a big part of the Black community, and some Black people tend to lean on their faith to help them through their issues rather than a medical diagnosis. In addition, there is the socioeconomic disparity in […]

Mental health is wealth Read More »

Finding spiritual shelter from mental health struggles

Special to NNPA Newswire Keith Thompson was alone again with his thoughts, and, as usual, it wasn’t good. Recently divorced, drowning in debt and facing a fourth back surgery for chronic pain, the 48-year-old trucker no longer cared whether he lived or died. Such mental and emotional distress haunts millions. A recent government survey showed a doubling since 2019 in the proportion of Americans reporting anxiety or depressive disorder symptoms. The pandemic increased the number turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as alcohol and substance abuse. That’s what Thompson had tried since his teenage years as he battled depression and self-hatred. Then an unexpected phone call changed everything for the Hebron, Ohio, resident. Just days before his surgery, Thompson spoke to one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, a group known for their public preaching but now pivoting to phone calling and letter writing to share their Bible message during the pandemic. It was a wake-up call for Thompson. “I tried it my way for some 40 years, and look where it got me,” he said. “I thought I’d try God’s way for a change.” After his surgery, Thompson started studying the Bible in earnest. His instructor became his confidant and mentor, helping him use Bible principles to work through his intense negative feelings. Thompson then began to help others by sharing in the ministry alongside the Witnesses. “I got to the point where I felt, ‘I want to be alive,’” he said, “like I had done something worthwhile.” Amid the pandemic, he became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and made it his life’s work to reach out to comfort others with the Bible’s message of hope, love, and forgiveness that helped change his life, even studying the Bible with a man dealing with his own addiction and mental health issues. Thompson’s transformation is no isolated phenomenon. Faith and the support of a congregation have helped many others turn the corner in their recovery. “While the Bible does not indicate that spirituality cures medical problems, many have derived comfort and strength from what the Bible teaches and the practical guidance it provides,” said Robert

Finding spiritual shelter from mental health struggles Read More »

COMMENTARY: Blacks are sitting ducks after Gov. Abbott lifts mask mandate

By: Roy Douglas Malonson   Greg Abbott has lost his damn mind! The Texas governor announced this week that Texas will be reopening at 100 % and he is lifting the mask mandate. With all of the statistics and everything going on, why would he choose to do that when we know that, not only

COMMENTARY: Blacks are sitting ducks after Gov. Abbott lifts mask mandate Read More »

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

Scroll to Top
Search