How has your support system helped you on your journey to mental wellness? My support system has helped me on my journey by letting me know I have someone to lean on and talk to for anything I might be worried about. They help me by simply existing in my presence and giving a listening ear and giving helpful feedback to make me feel better and more confident. What would you say to a person who is dealing with mental health issues? SHY TURNER Student I would let them know it is okay to not be okay. You do not owe anything to anyone who may pressure you into feeling like you’re overreacting. Your feelings are valuable and valid, and it all starts with you and how you feel most comfortable starting your journey to want to be a better version of yourself. BREANNE WARD CEO Forward Consulting, LLC COREY LEWIS Founder The Healthy Project Discussing mental health seems to be taboo in Black families. How can we change the narrative and make it ok to discuss mental health? First, we can be honest about our own mental health to trusted loved ones. We then can find connections and use that to get our needs met. What do you say to someone who is apprehensive to see a therapist? We have been using doctors, hair stylists, barbers, and church members as therapists for years. Finding a qualified therapist could take your healing to another level. However, in this therapeutic relationship you are challenged, coached, and cared for while breaking habits and finding new coping strategies. What does it look like to achieve healthy equity for Black Iowans? Achieving health equity for Black Iowans involves addressing systemic barriers and disparities that disproportionately affect the Black community in Iowa. What is one thing someone can start to do to address their own mental health needs that is inexpensive especially if they don't have health insurance? Peer-to-peer support, your church home if you have one.
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