As the leaves change and the days grow cooler, it’s normal to feel the shift not just in the weather, but in our moods.
For many of us, the fall air can bring feelings of sadness, anxiety, or seasonal depression—all on top of everything else happening in the world.
This month of October is a great time to check in with ourselves. With Mental Illness Awareness week happening Oct 6 – Oct 12th and World Mental Health Day on Thursday, October 10th, it’s a reminder for us to reflect on how we’re really feeling and what we need to nurture our mental well-being.
And look at God! Just for us, Sistas, we also have Black Girl Day Off on Friday October 11th— a day for us to embrace rest, restoration, and self-care. Because, Sis, we’ve got to say no to Black girl blues and let these days serve as an invitation to slow down and truly invest in our mental health.
Of course, we can’t all take a day off or clock out of our roles as moms, caretakers, and everything else we manage, but we can still carve out time for a pause, a mini spa moment, or even just a walk to get some fresh air.
Check out this week’s mental health tip for more ideas on how to take care of yourself. And If you’re in a crisis or need professional help in person, remember that we’re here for you. Share the Right Response with your people to make sure mental illness is responded to with healthcare professionals, not handcuffs.
“It’s not the load that breaks you down; it’s the way you carry it.”
— Lena Horne
Sista Spotlight
In our community, we team up when needed.
But don’t get it twisted; our Sistas are out there changing lives on their own.
Today, get to know one of our Sistas and see how she inspires us!
Daanish Jones
Daanish was recently appointed to the DC Board of Medicine and the Artistic Empowerment Center Board serving with a focus on voicing the concerns of community members with chronic health conditions.
Learn more and connect with Daanish here.
We are so very proud of our member and Sista, Daanish.
She places 1M4 at very impactful tables.
Go head, Daanish!
Case Update on Timothy McCree Johnson
This week our Founder, Tansy, stood in court with Timothy’s family, offering strength and support during this challenging time. Court resumed Monday with the prosecution showing the video of Timothy’s last moments. There are few things more heartbreaking than sitting with a family as they witness their loved ones life being taken. And to know that this is a result of sunglasses allegedly being stolen… the wound goes deeper.
Sunglasses for a life. It is just not right.
The verdict was announced around 6pm Friday. The officer was found guilty of reckless handling of a firearm and not guilty of involuntary manslaughter.
Read about the case and verdict, then hit ‘reply’ to let us know your thoughts.
A bright spot in this was the coming together of different organizations to stand with the family.
Pictured below are Latoya of Life After The Impact, Tansy of 1M4, and Mary Anne of Moms Demand Action Virginia.
Though their eyes may be red from tears, their hearts are full of love and commitment to ending violence.
Voter Check-In
Ain’t no way we’re heading to the polls in just a few weeks?! As we count down to the big day on November 5th, just a friendly reminder to confirm your voter registration status. Also, plan to vote early (if available in your state), vote earlier in the day before work, or prepare to wait in a line (with water and snacks).
Whatever you need to do to cast your vote and have your voice heard, do it.
Any questions or concerns? Click “reply” to this email and we’ll help you figure things out.
Please send us your early voting pics so we can highlight you!
Note: photos cannot feature any specific candidate. Just highlight your gorgeous face and the “I Voted” sticker
Article of the Week
As police brutality and violence persist, it’s a harsh reminder that no amount of wealth or fame can protect you from being targeted as a Black person in America.
Take Tyreek Hill’s recent traffic stop, for example. The headline says it all:
NFL Player’s Privilege May Have Spared His Life, But Other Black Men Aren’t So Lucky.
A Mental Health Tip For You!
Sis, what are your plans for Friday, Oct. 11th aka Black Girl Day Off? How about creating a cozy self-care ritual? Set aside time to indulge in a calming activity like a warm bath infused with your favorite essential oils. Light some candles, play soothing music, and allow yourself to fully unwind. Here are some other ideas:
Creative expression: Engage in a creative activity that brings you joy like painting, writing, or crafting.
Mindfulness meditation: Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on your breath.
Disconnect from technology: It’s that phone, Sis! Take a break from your phone and social media for the day. Use this time to reconnect with yourself and focus on what truly matters.
These intentional practices can help you release stress and reconnect with your inner self. Remember, taking this time for yourself isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for your mental well-being. Embrace the power of rest and self-preservation!
Spread Some Blessings!
The consequences of police violence extend far beyond the loss of life. For families affected, it’s the loss of income, the sacrifice of basic necessities, and the start of a high-cost legal fight. If you have the capacity, consider donating to 1M4. Proceeds help support impacted families and sustain the work of 1M4 toward ending police violence for good.
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Seasonal depression is no joke! It’s important to recognize that these feelings are valid and to prioritize your mental health during this time. The weight of the world can feel particularly heavy, but you don’t have to face it alone. Taking care of your mental health means seeking support, nurturing your spirit, and finding healthy coping mechanisms. If you or someone you know is struggling, our directory has resources and support tailored to your needs, including access to mental health counselors. Taking the first step toward healing is a powerful act of self-love, and we’re here to help you do just that. |
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October 10: World Mental Health Day
Help us raise awareness of The Right Response, both on the day and throughout the month.
Because mental health emergencies deserve mental health responses. Click the image below to share our big commitment of routing 100K community members to health centered response teams.
Oct 11th is Black Girl Day Off
Listen…we didn’t make up the holiday but we will honor it. Ok? Go ahead and schedule your PTO for Friday Oct 11th and take a day to just be, Sis.
Google it yourself. It is real. Just as real as our need for it.
October 12: 5th Annual Pull Up for Tay Parade and Purpose Run
Hosted in Fort Worth, Texas, this event is in support of the The Atatiana Project. You can learn more about the foundation’s story and journey here.
October 22: 29th Annual Day of Protest to Stop Police Brutality
If you would like to be included in this year’s graphics, see details in the flyer below.
You Got Your 1M4 Merch Yet?
Visit the 1M4 merch store to make sure you’re representing at court support, protests, or in line at your favorite coffee spot. We want to see YOU in your 1M4 gear. Every purchase goes directly to funding the work of 1M4 increasing access to safety and wellness.
The Mental Health Literacy Collaborative (MHLC) has officially launched its MHL Aware Certification Training.
Mental Health Literacy (MHL) Aware is a 60-minute training (with an optional certification) that benefits professional, personal, and community needs for knowledge, language, and confidence around the topic of mental health. This training is the first step in guiding people to successfully integrate MHL into the fabric of their community. The Aware training focuses on educating individuals about 1) What MHL is, 2) Why it is beneficial, and 3) How they can bring this information to their community. In addition to these core focus areas, the training provides basic, real-world application strategies. The cost is $30 per person for live trainings and $25 for the asynchronous course. Group rates are also available by contacting info@themhlc.org.
