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In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Unique Unity's Executive Director Odessa Ammons, shared some of her own personal experiences, perspectives, and recommendations on this critical subject.
Continue reading to learn more about the significance of this observation, the long-term impact, and how Odessa is helping to educate her family and others on the great importance of mental health.
Introduction
Originally from Bradenton, Florida, lived in Nashville, TN, and surrounding areas for ten years, now back in the Bradenton, Florida area. mother of two daughters and a son. Coming from a family of seven, family holds great importance to me. I am the Founder and CEO of a Non-Profit Organization, Unique Unity, I inspire to create positive change in the world. I enjoy listening to music, exercising, sports, eating, and spending time with family.
July is Mental Health BIPOC Awareness Month. What does that mean to you?
As a black bi-racial female, I am a part of more than one under-represented and marginalized group. Recognizing my community, my people, the issues, the impact, barriers, and the issues are very important to me.
What do you hope people will take away from the observance of this month? Why do you feel BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month is an important time?
As a community, it is my hope that Black Americans will develop an understanding and learn how to be open to issues surrounding mental health. These issues are more important in our community as opposed to other groups simply because of the added stressors that we face as a result of our inherited past mistreatments in slavery and the decades of systemic racism. It is highly important for us to take the time to bring awareness to the subject which is often stigmatized. BIPOC Mental Awareness month is a unique time because it highlights issues by bringing visibility to a subject that is hard to speak about. Thirty-One Days of attention are directed to this critical subject. There has been an avoidance in the black community regarding awareness and mental health.
What specific mental health tactics/ activities/practices do you practice on a regular basis?
I get creative by using several techniques to remain in a healthy place mentally and emotionally such as prayer, exercise, relaxation, meditation, reading, dancing, and art, and I found a love in making TikTok Videos- it is true therapy for me.
How do you teach others the importance of mental health?
I remind others of the importance of staying active, having healthy habits and hobbies, being involved, staying positive, ensuring that you are not isolating yourself from others, ensuring that you are not consumed by things or people, and letting go of things that you are unable to control. I feel strongly that everyone could use a spiritual advisor, therapist, or counselor in some capacity. In that, it is important that you create a habit that you are connected even when things are okay and going well. This way if things become overwhelming you have a relationship with someone you can trust and talk to and you have a safe place mentally and emotionally. Seeking professional help does not indicate that you are crazy or have a problem. Seeking help indicates that you love yourself and others enough to ensure you are getting assistance to be your best self. Seeking counsel is more of a strength than it is a weakness.
Does mental health awareness enrichen your daily life?
I find many benefits in mental health awareness because it is what gets me through day-to-day as well as difficult circumstances. If you are aware you able. If you are unaware you may be unable. Awareness equips you with tools, resources, education, techniques, and perspective that can guide you when you are faced with difficult circumstances.
To learn more about BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, join us for our Mind and Body sessions/ Healing Circle, or simply contact us.
I enjoyed reading this very informative post.