A Mental Health Moment
By Bernadette Joy Graham, MA, LPCC
The Truth Contributor
Black women in the current generation navigate a complex landscape shaped by intersection systems of oppression, cultural expectations, and evolving social realities. While their contributions to community, culture, and progress are immense, the challenges they face are just as significant and deserve focused attention and system solutions.
One critical challenge is the persistent economic inequality experienced by Black women. Despite increases in educational attainment, Black women continue to face wage disparities compared to white men and women. On average, Black women earn less than their peers with similar qualifications – a gap influenced by both racial and gender biases in hiring, promotion and compensation practices (Hegewisch & Hartmann, 2020).
Closely linked to economic barriers is workplace discrimination. Black women often contend with “double jeopardy” – the compounded impact of racism and sexism simultaneously affecting their professional experiences. Studies show that Black women report higher rates of stereotyping, microaggressions and barriers to leadership opportunities relative to other groups (King et al., 2018).
Healthcare inequities are also acute. Black women face disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity, often attributed to systemic racism in healthcare settings, implicit bias among medical professionals, and unequal access to quality care (Taylor et al., 2020). These disparities persist even when controlling for income and education, underscoring the pervasive role of racial bias in health outcomes.
In additional to institutional challenges, Black women endure mental health stressors rooted in societal pressures and cultural burdens. The expectation to be strong and self-sufficient – often referred to as the “Strong Black Woman” schema – can paradoxically discourage Black women from seeking mental health support, leading to internalized stress and untreated psychological strain (Woods-Giscombe, 2010).
Despite these challenges, Black women continue to be leaders in activism, entrepreneurship, and cultural innovation. Their resilience is evident in social movements, community support networks, and advocacy efforts that confront injustice and expand opportunities for future generations.
Addressing these persistent challenges requires structural change – including equitable workplace policies, healthcare reform, and culturally competent mental health resources. Recognizing the specific experiences of Black women is not just an act of acknowledgment but a necessary step toward greater societal equity.
Take a mental health moment — all Black women and all others who seek to understand “the Black Woman” know that there is no other like the Black Woman and never will be due to the past and present challenges, barriers, and inequality that has taken a toll on the very beautiful, spirited and gifted souls a recipe that makes the Black Woman unique and special. We are who we are, let’s embrace our place in this world and always, always stand together to ensure the future generations of Black Women continue to contribute greatness, but to do so keep your mind right. Mental health is a positive influence to health and wellness when one is faced with such immense challenges.
References (APA 7th Edition)
Hegewisch, A., & Hartmann, H. (2020). The gender wage gap by race and ethnicity in 2019. Institute for Women’s Policy Research. https:///wpr.org
King, E.B., Skoog, K.A., & Holmes, A. (2018).
Intersectionality in everyday life: An exploration of Black women’s workplace experiences. Journal of Social Issues, 74(4), 670-688.
Taylor, J.K., Novoa, C., Hamm, K., & Phadke, S. (2020). Eliminating racial disparities in maternal and infant mortality. Center for American Progress. https://www.americanprogress.org
Woods-Giscombe, C.L. (2010). Superwoman schema: African American women’s views on stress, strength, and health. Qualitative Health Research, 20(5), 668-683.
Bernadette Joy Graham is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist. Email: graham.bernadette@gmail.com
For Appointments: Maumee location – 419-866-8232 – Toledo location – 419-578-2525
If you feel you may be in a mental health crisis, please call 988 or go to the nearest emergency room.