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Unbreakable: Black Women and Mental Health

October 7, 2025

The article addresses the mental health crisis among Black women, prompted by the deaths of beauty pageant contestants Tyra Spaulding and Cheslie Kryst who struggled with mental illness despite outward success. It highlights how Black women often shoulder multiple burdens while ignoring their own mental health needs due to stigma and societal expectations of strength. The African American Wellness Project (AAWP) offers resources specifically designed for Black women's mental health needs through their Mental Health Resource Hub.

Who is affected

  • Black women, particularly those balancing family, career, and community responsibilities
  • Families, friends, and communities connected to Black women experiencing mental health challenges
  • Beauty pageant contestants and public figures like Tyra Spaulding and Cheslie Kryst
  • Black women who feel pressured to appear strong while struggling internally

What action is being taken

  • The African American Wellness Project (AAWP) is providing a Mental Health Resource Hub specifically designed for Black women
  • AAWP is working to close health disparity gaps by offering trusted knowledge, tools, and resources
  • The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988) is available 24 hours a day for those in immediate crisis
  • The article author is raising awareness about mental health challenges facing Black women

Why it matters

  • Mental health struggles among Black women are often hidden behind a façade of strength and success
  • Black women face unique stressors including racial injustice, political tensions, workplace pressures, and community responsibilities
  • Despite the severity of mental health issues in the Black community, there is significant stigma around seeking help
  • The deaths of prominent Black women like Tyra Spaulding and Cheslie Kryst highlight how mental health struggles can affect anyone regardless of outward success

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint