Creating
Open-hearted
Conversations
for

Black Men

“A strong black man is not defined by his muscles but by his resilience.”

~Dr. Jaronda Session, DSW, LCSW

Creating
Open-hearted
Conversations
for

Black Men

“A strong black man is not defined by his muscles but by his resilience.”

~Dr. Jaronda Session, DSW, LCSW

black men therapy

COCOA CUP Therapy Inc. provides an inviting, safe, warm, and welCOming HEALing space for Black Men.

The Power of EFIT for Black Men

Black men have a deep potential to tap into their emotions and channel positive energy. This journey can lead to significant personal growth and transform how they connect with loved ones. Emotion-Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) is a promising approach that helps reshape relationships and foster emotional connection.

Why Black Men Should Embrace EFIT

Enhancing Relationships

Originally developed for couples therapy, EFIT offers a safe space to deepen emotional awareness and develop positive methods to express and manage emotions. This can pave the way for stronger, more fulfilling connections with those who matter most.

Confronting Avoidance

Many Black men, regardless of their social status, struggle with avoiding emotions. EFIT provides an effective roadmap for breaking down these barriers and forming authentic emotional connections. By addressing avoidance patterns, childhood traumas, mood swings, and triggers, Black men can prevent long-term mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety, and fulfill both their own needs and those of their loved ones.

Stepping Stones to Healing

For Black men who prefer a more gradual approach to emotional healing, EFIT offers a structured path. Its three stages and nine-step method provide a paced journey into deeper emotional work, building trust and making the therapeutic process more comfortable and empowering.

EFIT offers a path to emotional resilience and healthier relationships, making it a valuable tool for Black men on their journey to healing and self-discovery.

Feelings Wheel

A feelings wheel helps identify and articulate emotions by categorizing them into segments and layers. For Black men, this tool can empower better understanding and communication of your emotions.

How are you feeling today?

credit: BEAM Community

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Cool,Hipster,Young,African,American,Stylish,Rebel,Vulnerable,Guy,Standing

Signs and Symptoms of Depression for Black Men

Persistent sadness or feelings of emptiness

Black Men experiencing depression may consistently feel down, sad, or empty. This feeling may persist for weeks or longer.

Loss of interest or pleasure

A loss of interest in once enjoyable activities, including hobbies, socializing, gym work out, or sports activities, can be a sign of depression for Black Men.

Changes in appetite and weight

Depression can cause a significant change in appetite, resulting in weight loss or weight gain. Some Black Men may experience a loss of appetite, while others may engage in emotional eating and experience weight gain.

Sleep disturbances

Depression can disrupt sleep patterns. Some Black Men may experience insomnia and have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, while others may sleep excessively.

Fatigue or loss of energy

Feeling constantly tired, lacking energy, or experiencing a decrease in overall productivity and motivation can be indicators of depression in Black Men.

Irritability or restlessness

Depression can manifest as increased unCOntrolled emotions including, irritability, agitation, or restlessness. Black Men may exhibit signs of anger, have adult temper tantrums, or be snappish than usual.

Physical symptoms

Depression can also manifest as physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive problems, or unexplained body aches and pains in Black Men.

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

Black Men experiencing depression may have persistent feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, or self-blame.

Thoughts of death or suicide

In severe cases of depression, Black Men may experience recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. It’s essential to take these thoughts seriously and seek immediate professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing them.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call 911 or 988, go to the nearest emergency room, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center, or text MHA to 741741 at the Crisis Text Line.

Breaking Barriers: Empowering Black Men to Seek Mental Health Support

Psychologists are making significant strides in enhancing mental health support for Black men and boys. Despite these efforts, recent research shows that only 26.4% of Black men aged 18 to 44 who experience daily anxiety or depression seek mental health services, compared to 45.4% of non-Hispanic White men (SAMHSA) (American Psychological Association).

Understanding the Barriers

Stigma and Societal Expectations

Stigma is a significant barrier to seeking help for mental health issues. Black men, like many others, may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their emotional struggles due to societal expectations of masculinity and strength. The fear of being perceived as weak or vulnerable can prevent them from opening up and seeking the support they need. However, it’s important to understand that seeking help is a sign of strength and self-awareness, not weakness.

Cultural Norms and Beliefs

Cultural norms and beliefs also play a significant role. Some Black men may view mental health issues as a sign of personal weakness or something that should be kept private. Seeking professional help might be seen as disloyal to cultural values or as lacking faith in one’s brotherhood. However, embracing mental health care can strengthen these bonds and improve overall community well-being.

The Importance of Seeking Help

It’s crucial to recognize that denying or dismissing emotions does not make them disappear. Untreated mental health problems can worsen over time and significantly impact overall well-being. Promoting open conversations about mental health, reducing stigma, and providing culturally sensitive support are essential steps to encourage Black men to seek help when needed.

Encouragement and Empowerment

Empowering Black men to take charge of their mental health involves recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, celebrating small steps towards healing, and fostering environments where vulnerability is seen as a strength. With the right support and resources, we can dismantle the barriers to mental health care and ensure that every Black man has the opportunity to thrive emotionally and mentally.

By addressing these barriers and fostering community engagement, psychologists can develop more effective strategies to support the mental health of Black men and boys. Seeking help is a positive and transformative step towards better health and a brighter future.