Growing up, I quickly realized that being Black wasn’t just about the color of my skin. It was a fundamental part of my identity that shaped how I saw the world and how the world saw me. Unfortunately, the world wasn’t kind when delivering that realization. On top of that, when the world threw depression and anxiety into the mix,...[ read more ]
In the United States and various parts of the world, race-related bullying has been an enduring and distressing issue. Black teenagers often find themselves confronted with the harsh realities of discrimination, prejudice, and systemic inequalities, which significantly impact their mental health and overall well-being. The persistent exposure to racial bias and hostility can lead to profound psychological and emotional distress,...[ read more ]
In the interwoven web of diverse human identities, the experiences of Black LGBT+ teens and young adults stand at a unique intersection of race, sexuality, and gender identity/presentation. This intersectionality shapes their journey in profound and often challenging ways, molding identities in the face of societal norms, cultural expectations, and personal growth. For Black LGBTQ+ folks, the experience of being...[ read more ]
I became a social worker for lots of reasons. Specifically, I wanted to be able to provide therapy for Black teens. Why? Because when I was a teen, Black figures I weren't related to meant a lot! They gave me guidance, support, hope, and a vision for the kind of successful, happy, healthy, and whole Black person -- Black woman...[ read more ]
If you're considering therapy for your anxious teen, remember how hard it is to be a teenager. The teenage years are a time filled with many changes, where they're in the process of understanding themselves and their place in the world. Additionally, it's a journey filled with highs and lows, self-discovery, and personal growth. In a whirlwind of changes, challenges,...[ read more ]
More and more, people are talking about Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). In this article, we’ll answer “What is C-PTSD?” and explore its intricacies, including symptoms, impact on marginalized groups, examples of traumatic situations, and the path to healing. Get ready to embark on this enlightening journey together! What is C-PTSD: A Closer Look C-PTSD, or Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder,...[ read more ]
Life's Journey: Ups, Downs, and Lasting Impact Life is an unpredictable journey, with experiences that shape our minds and bodies. Some recover naturally, but others face complex PTSD—a condition resulting from ongoing trauma. It affects mental, emotional, and physical well-being, disrupting relationships. Understanding Complex PTSD Complex PTSD develops from repeated or prolonged exposure to trauma, such as childhood abuse, neglect,...[ read more ]
Post-Traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that typically occurs after individuals have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a serious accident, natural disaster, a terrorist act, war/combat, rape or other violent personal assault.In the past, PTSD went by different names. During and right after the years of World War 1, the term “shell shock” was often used....[ read more ]
No one is ever prepared for a tragedy. In fact, most of us go through our lives believing that tragedies happen to other people.When people do experience a distressing or life-threatening event, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or terrorist attack, they often develop extreme anxiety or PTSD. Many develop ongoing problems with their personal relationships and their own self-esteem.Everyone deals with trauma in...[ read more ]
As shocking instances of mass shootings continue to occur all over the United States, we often hear people talk about Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. Frequently associated with post-war veterans and victims of mass violence, PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that can develop in people who’ve experienced or witnessed a traumatic or life-threatening event.However, there are many other instances of...[ read more ]