07/21/2026
Black Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week is here and as a black mama myself, I’ve been reflecting on the black mothers in my family, and the importance of mental health.
Many of us grew up watching the matriarchs in our family carry heavy mental loads while continuing to push through no matter what. Some of us know it as “super woman syndrome” or ‘weathering’. This hurts many of us because we do what we believe is the expectation; that we must remain strong, capable, and resilient at all times.
Many of us have been conditioned to believe that rest equals laziness. We feel guilty for slowing down, asking for help, or putting ourselves first.
I told myself going into 2026 that I would rest. I’ve learned that it’s okay for others to pickup where I cannot. Even if that means hiring out the work. It is okay to delegate. And it is okay to say no. I want to be able to enjoy life with my family but that also means putting my own health first, and your overall health comes from your head.
To every Black mother carrying more than anyone realizes: your rest is necessary, your feelings are valid, and you deserve support too. ❤️
