July is call to action month. In 31 days, Minority Mental Health Awareness Month aims to raise awareness of the various mental health struggles faced by Black, Indigenous and people of color.
Black women entrepreneurs, for example, are among those who are equally worthy of being seen, heard and supported.
As business owners, Black women can find it challenging to manage and strengthen their mental health amid stress and long hours, as well as navigating relationships with business partners, board members, investors, community members, and others.
Here are eight quotes to remind you that you are supported and that you are not alone.
– “You don’t need to be treated every day. You don’t have to check off goals on your to-do list every day. You don’t have to rush and ‘build’ every day. You don’t have to push every day. You have the right to just be. You were born to experience leisure, joy and rest.”
Tricia Herseyfounder of The Nap Ministry.
– “Self-avoidance is futile. Believe in your unique gifts and how they will impact the world. Tune in and find out for yourself. Be your own student.”
Latham Thomasdoula and founder of Mama Glow.
– “You don’t need a reason, you can be tired just because you are tired. #NoJustificationRequired Capitalism and other social structures condition us to think differently. But rest is revolutionary.”
Loveland Foundation.
– “Isolation is a challenge that often arises for small business owners. There may not be many others in your circle who understand the pressures and demands of your position. That’s why finding community with other small business owners is key.”
Dr. Joy Harden Bradfordhost and founder of Therapy for Black Girls.
– “Setting boundaries and peace are two ways I work on taking better care of myself in the moment. Setting boundaries gives you the peace in your life to sit with yourself.”
Maryam Ajayifounder of Divine in Well.
– “You need a lot more than mental health or ‘wellness’ in this era of discrimination, invisibility and psychological warfare. You need an airtight safety net for your mind.”
The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health: Navigating the Unequal System, Learn Emotional Health Tools, and Get the Help You Deserve.
– “Being able to be honest about my challenges inspires people to not only be honest about their challenges, but also to know that it’s okay not to be Superwoman.”
Christina Ricefounder of OMNoire.
– “Love yourself through it. Realize that you are doing the best you can right now. Be open to improvisation here and there, as needed. Break free from any unhealthy relationship with complete control. We are reminded that at the end of the day, we are not in control.”
Lalah Deliaauthor and founder of Vibrate Higher Daily.