From Surviving to Thriving: Practical Steps for Healing and Mental Wellness
Practical Steps for Healing
Part 2: Practical Steps for Healing and Mental Wellness in the Black Community
Healing isn’t just a one-time thing—it’s an ongoing process. So how do we actually make mental
wellness a part of our daily lives? In this second part, we’re breaking down simple, practical ways to start
healing and breaking cycles that no longer serve us.
1. Therapy: Not Just for Crisis Mode
Therapy can be a game changer, especially when you find someone who understands the unique
experiences of being Black in today’s world. If you’re looking for a Black therapist or one who’s
culturally competent, check out the clinician profiles at Curaforcouples.com.
And let’s bust this myth: Therapy isn’t just for when things are falling apart. It’s like going to the gym for
your mind—it helps keep you strong and balanced before things get too heavy.
2. Express Yourself
Too often, we’re taught to "keep it together" and not show emotions. But bottling things up doesn’t make
them go away—it just builds pressure. Finding ways to express ourselves, whether through journaling,
art, music, or just having heart-to-heart talks with people we trust, can be so healing. Your feelings are
valid, and you deserve to be heard.
3. Set Boundaries Like Your Peace Depends on It (Because It Does)
Setting boundaries is one of the most powerful things we can do for our mental health. That means
learning to say no without guilt, distancing ourselves from toxic relationships, and even limiting how
much negative news we consume.
And let’s talk about family. Just because we love them doesn’t mean we have to accept harmful behaviors.
Having honest conversations and setting healthy boundaries—even when it’s hard—is necessary for
breaking generational patterns.
4. Make Space for Joy
Joy is not an afterthought—it’s a necessity. We don’t need permission to celebrate ourselves, find things
that make us laugh, or take moments to just breathe and be. Whether it’s dancing, cooking, listening to
music, or spending time with loved ones, joy is healing.
5. Reconnect with Cultural Healing Practices
Our ancestors knew a thing or two about healing. Meditation, herbal remedies, drumming, storytelling—
these traditions have been part of our culture for generations. Honoring these practices, alongside modern therapy, can provide a holistic approach to mental wellness.
6. Keep the Conversation Going
Talking about mental health helps break the stigma. Share resources, check in on your friends, and don’t
be afraid to open up about your own journey. The more we talk about it, the more we make healing a
normal, accepted part of life.
7. Moving Forward with Intention
Taking care of our mental health is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. And it’s something we can all commit
to, not just for ourselves but for future generations. So let’s do the work, lean on each other, and keep
moving toward healing. Because we don’t just deserve to survive—we deserve to thrive.
Ayanna Kilgore , MAMFT, MSED