Sis, can you believe it’s already November? The year is flying by, and with it comes the holiday hustle (who’s cooking all this food?!), end-of-year tasks, and—oh yes—the upcoming election results.
As mamas and caretakers raising kids, supporting partners, and juggling a lot at work, the stress ain’t no joke.
That’s why the first week of the month is all about stress awareness, with November 6th being Stress Awareness Day. Let’s put down our capes and take this opportunity to check in with ourselves and each other as we step into the busiest time of the year.
Whether that looks like incorporating more self-care into your daily routine or asking for help, finding healthy ways to manage your stress is essential for your mental well-being.
As we kick off our Home for the Holidays campaign, let’s focus on keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe. Continue to share our Right Response directory, which offers guidance and resources for handling mental health crises without police involvement, so everyone gets home safely with no empty seats at the table this season.
Look out for our campaign toolkit with ready-to-share graphics and captions to post on your socials. Spread the word with your circle, especially Sistas who may need extra support right now.❤️
“I did my best, and God did the rest.”
— Hattie McDaniel
Sista Spotlight
These Sistas are stepping up and hosting in-person Sista Checkin sessions in Atlanta, Las Vegas, and Northern VA:
Atlanta – Camille, Jen, and Brittany
Las Vegas – Radiance & Roni
Northern Virgina – Tansy
Yep, you heard that right. We are hosting three in-person Sista Checkins on Nov 12th to hold space with one another Post-Election.
Whatever the outcome, we want to be ready and in community to discuss our emotions, thoughts, and just be fully present with one another.
Keep an eye on your inbox and our social media @weare1M4 (go ahead and follow us on the platform of your choice) for the registration links. Registration is required as space will be limited — but the impact will be limitless.
And for those not located in these cities, would you like us to host a virtual session Wednesday, Nov 6th? Let us know. We know we can feel “zoom fatigue” but we also know the importance of creating space. We want to hear from you. Do you want us to host a virtual session?
Election Check-In
🗣️ Final reminder: If you’re voting in person, please make time to head to your local polling station on Tuesday. Your vote is powerful, so don’t miss your chance to make it count in this historic election!
Any questions or concerns? Review this checklist or click “reply” to this email and we’ll help you figure things out.
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Article of the Week
It’s important for new moms and those considering having children to understand that pregnancy can impact mental health, sometimes leading to conditions like postpartum psychosis.
While rare, it’s a real possibility, especially for Black women who often face extra challenges in getting their concerns taken seriously in healthcare. Check out this article to learn more and raise awareness:
She Had Thoughts of Harming Her Baby. To Treat Her, Doctors Kept Them Together.
A Mental Health Tip For You!
Guess what, Sis?! The new Mental Health Television Network is now live on Zeam to stream for free! This is a great way to explore content that supports our mental well-being while you’re enjoying a walk, sipping your coffee, or taking some much-deserved me-time. Engaging with informative shows can help reduce stress and provide valuable insights into self-care and healing.
What topics or shows would you love to see featured on this network? Your input matters, so let’s make this space truly supportive and impactful together. Check it out here.
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.
How are your edges, Sis? Is stress, this Election, or being a Black woman snatching or thinning them out without you even realizing? Remember, not all stressors are immediately obvious; some are woven into our daily lives and require a closer look to spot.
This week, let’s commit to uncovering those hidden pressures.
Try taking a mindful walk while carrying a journal to note any moments when your heart races, your appetite wanes, or you feel anxious or out of sorts.
It’s also okay to decline invitations or situations that drain your energy. Be aware of what demands more from you, both inside and outside, and always prioritize your well-being in your decisions.
Your Sistas In ALL Of This,
The Ladies Of 1M4
November 5th: Election Day
Reminder: Your vote is your voice, so please make sure you vote! 🗳
Vote like your mental health, physical health and quality of life depend on it…
because they do.
Remember to share your “I Voted” Sticker Selfies so we can celebrate you
November 6: International Stress Awareness Day
Sistas, don’t forget to pause on this day to prioritize our mental well-being and find healthy ways to manage stress. Learn more.
November 12: In Person Sista Checkins (Post Election)
Atlanta GA, Las Vegas NV, & Northern Virginia
Save the Date for the evening of November 12th in these three areas. Keep an eye on your inbox, our website and our social media pages for the registration links.
November 13: World Kindness Day
World Kindness Day reminds us of the power of empathy, compassion, and kindness in uniting us all. Let’s take a moment to reflect on how small acts can create a ripple effect of positivity in our community. Do a kind act today and spread the love!
November 23: International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day
This day is dedicated to supporting those who have lost loved ones to suicide and creating a space for healing and connection. If you’re navigating the complex emotions that come with this kind of loss, know that you are not alone. I
It’s important to take time to reflect, remember, and seek comfort in your community. Whether you attend an event, seek help from our directory, or simply take a quiet moment for yourself, allow space for your feelings.
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.
