As many know, May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and I’ve got something to say to my peers of color.

Your skin color does not make you immune to mental illness. Let me say it louder so that those in the back can hear.

YOUR SKIN COLOR DOES NOT MAKE YOU IMMUNE TO MENTAL ILLNESS!!!!!!!!!!

Mental illness affects all communities and does not discriminate. In our community, mental illness is far more serious because we avoid talking about it. Some have gone as far as pushing it aside as a white thing that was invented to push drugs on to our poor innocent children. If you’re struggling, it’s okay to ask for help. Anyone that tries to shame you for admitting you need help then they don’t have your best interest in mind.

Also:

RELIGIOUS FAITH SHOULD NOT REPLACE PROFESSIONAL HELP!!!!!!

Don’t ever tell someone that they’re suffering because their faith isn’t strong. As a matter of fact, it was a priest who saved my life, pleading with me to get help after he heard me confess my suicidal thoughts. You can be both committed to your faith and still get professional medical help.

A final thing:

IT IS OKAY TO TAKE MEDS!!!!!!!!!

I personally chose not to take medication, but I know that there are people who do genuinely need them. As long as meds are accompanied by professional help then there shouldn’t be a problem.

If y’all ever feel unsafe around those who you surround yourself with and you need a friend to hear you out. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Stay classy…

 

Flemmings Beaubrun is an avid gamer and lover of music. When not working, Flemmings likes to spend his time whipping up dank beats for the masses. He also spends his weekends thrift shopping for rare video games and obscure electronics. Other times he’s in front of a TV with a giant bowl of cereal enjoying shows from the 90’s.