the ability to take care of ourselves and those around us, we have to remember that it’s also okay to not be okay.
“The strong black woman syndrome has to go away because it only perpetuates us not taking care of ourselves and pretending that everything is okay,” says Dr. Lewis. “So if we don’t address how [our issues] impacts us, we’re just putting a bandaid over the problem.” If you’re interested in counseling, but aren’t sure how to start the process, Dr. Lewis suggests asking for a referral from someone you know that’s been through therapy, trying your church counseling services if you’re concerned about incorporating spirituality into your counseling sessions or trying teletherapy counseling if you’re not comfortable with seeking counseling on person.
However, you decide to take up counseling, be sure to call first and ask for a free consultation as a way to determine if the particular counselor is a good fit for you.
Do Your Work
Often, what we see on social media is not as authentic as it may seem, so it’s important to remember the difference between social media and reality. “Social media has given us access to a whole bunch of stuff, but it’s also given us this skewed view of the world, says Dr. Lewis. “What you see is not actually what it may be.”
So, be mindful of not getting caught in the temptation of comparing yourself to someone else as well as being okay with celebrating others. “It doesn’t take