#RallyUp2SaveLives
Mental Health
Magazine
Top 5
MENTAL HEALTH
Change Agents Who Overcame Mental Challenges to Make a Change
ANGER MISUNDERSTOOD
By: Amanda Fludd, LCSW-R
MATTERS
OF MEN
Warrior Zone ViI: Lawrence Durden
I MARRIED AMONSTER By: TJ Woodard
MEN
CRY TOO By: Talona Smith
By: Lex Morgan
RWENSHAUN L. MILLER Special Feature:
Mental Health Change Agent
PAUL B. WILLIAMS, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW CEO & Therapist at Hearts in Mind Counseling, LLC
Features:
DEVON LEWIS BUCHANAN, MSW
Founder & CEO of Inspire Youth Services, Inc.
JEAN SEMELFORT JR., MA, LPC Founder/Mental Health Therapist C.A.C.T.U.S. Center
CHRISTOPHER SCOTT, MSW, CSWA
Founder of Hip Hop Social Worker, LLC
ALDIN GORDON, LCPC Winter Issue 2020
WINTER 2020
OUR FIGHT Mental Health Advocates
Speaking Up About Men Mental Health
Removing Mental
Health Stigmas
Men Mental Health
Matters to Us
Photo by Cash Captures
Vol. 3 Num. 1 Winter 2020 Founder & Editorial Director Nikita Powell-Cottman Managing Editor: TJ Woodard Asst. Managing Editor: Vanity Dawson Associate Editor: Paul Cottman Article Editor : Denise M. Walker Fashion Director: Kena'I Hollingworth Fashion Assistant: Tyshia Douglas Beauty Editor: Nekesa Smith Photographer & Photo Editor: Chamille Cash Beauty Assistant: TJ Woodard Contributer Writers: Jada Carrington Vanity Dawson Andrae Hayden Denise A. Kelley Denise M. Walker Kendra Hathaway Talona Smith Fashion Male Model: Craig Cooper Youth Contributing Writers: Lorelai Symmes Nina Hollingsworth Dasia Wood Youth Guest Writer: Theresa Kumazah
Lex Morgan Rhonda Wood Tynesha "Tyi" Flood Amanda Fludd Kristin Freeman Kena'i Hollingsworth Torre "Tor" White
Be GR8 Today All Day Everyday!
Make Your Purchase at www.gr8clothingline.com Use Code RALLYUP & 15% will be donated to We Fight Foundation Inc. to help them FIGHT for Mental Wellness & Suicide Prevention.
: @gr8clothingline : GR8 Clothing Line : 2022772934
RALLYUP & See What's INSIDE 06 Founder’s Letter 07 Meet the Contributers 09 Behind the Scenes 10 Fashion Section Where My Soldiers At? 15 Poetry Corner Denise A. Kelley Talona Smith Tor White 17 YOUTH ZONE Poetry Corner| Lorelai Symmes RUM Mental Health Comics | Illustrated By: RJ Sterling You're Not Alone! | Oversee By: Lex Morgan Identity Search | By: Theresa Kumazah Why is Mental Health Important? | By: Anonymous
23 36 Secondary Trama Hurts By: Kendra Hathaway, MA, LLMT, FLE 38 BEAUTY Beautiful Chaos 39 Special Feature Paul B. Williams
23 Cover Story Rwenshaun L. Miller | Mental Health Change Agent
41 Love and Mental Health I Married a Monster | By: TJ Woodard
26 Faith and Mental Health The Gift of Peace | By: Andrae Hayden
42 Never Too Late By: Tyi Flood
27 Matters of Men By: Lex Morgan
44 Making A Difference Devon Lewis Buchanan Jean Semelfort Jr. Christopher Scott
28 Therapy Is Dope Anger Misunderstood By: Amanda Fludd ...Featuring: Aldin Gordan, LCPC 30 DEAR AMANDA 32 Men Cry Too By: Talona Smith 34 WARRIOR ZONE VII Lawrence Durden
48 Health & Wellness Stress Free Green Smoothie Recipe 50 RESOURCES
FOUNDER'S LETTER e are approximately 60 days into the New Year... It's time to celebrate YOU because You Made It!!! As we dive into this New Year…New Decade, I challenge you to concentrate on how far you have already come! Failing to acknowledge how far you’ve come robs you of your joy, causes fear and doubt. It is easy to focus on the negative or how far you still have to go but for now, I want you to focus on your achievements… the big and the small ones. Those achievements can be: • Surviving another day • Prioritizing your self-care • Getting out of bed • Combing your head • Going for a walk • Cooking a meal • Grocery shopping • Doing something on your to -do list
Congratulate Yourself!!! Now that you’ve given yourself some credit, let’s talk about our winter issue! In this issue, we will be highlighting our men and mental health. In addition, we will be highlighting some of our men mental health change agents! The magazine is filled with informational and encouraging articles; along with survival stories. We are providing a platform for our men to have a voice. Our men’s mental health matters too! Mental illnesses affect both men and women, the recognition of mental illnesses in men is often lower than women. Research have shown that men with mental illnesses are also less likely to get the proper mental health treatment than women. In turn, men are more likely to die by suicide than women. Men, I need you to remember that it does not show a sign of weakness to GET HELP; in fact, it shows how STRONG YOU ARE!
I Fight, You Fight, We Fight Together! Blessings & Love,
"Niki" Powell-Cottman Editorial Director Photo by Cash Captures
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Meet The New CONTRIBUTORS RJ STERLING
@rj arts and @hilarious comics Comic Illustrator A word people often use to describe me is: Thoughtful One thing I'll never change about myself is: is my ability and want to see every angle of a situation When I look into the mirror I see someone eager to be better and better. I’m most my authentic self when: I'm alone with a pencil and paper I maintain my mental strength by exercising; making time for things I love and being around positive people.
Theresa Kumazah
Contributing Writer
(18 years old)
A word people often use to describe me is: Determined. One thing I'll never change about myself is: I’ll never change the way I treat others. When I look into the mirror I see A young woman with a purpose. I’m most my authentic self when: I am doing something I love, and am surrounded by genuine people who care and love me. I maintain my mental strength by Keeping God first and reflecting on, and learning from past experiences.
Torre "Tor" White @simpleetor
A word people often use to describe me is: People often describe me as resilient. One thing I'll never change about myself is: Standing in my truth and speaking out for others who aren’t able to. When I look into the mirror I see A strong black woman with thousands of unseen scars who believes she will change the world. I’m most my authentic self when: I’m doing advocacy work and/or writing. I maintain my mental strength by Knowing my triggers, weekly therapy, self care, and learning how to say no.
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 07
OUR MISSION
Community Care’s mission is to provide resources and services to consumers, families community partners, and other agencies based upon the areas of needs.
OUR VISION
Community Care’s vision is to be the number one resources of services and tools that provides multiple services determined by the communities expressed needs.
PSYCHIATRIC REHABILITATION SERVICES (ADULT & CHILD)
Behavior Health Rehabilitation Service for children and adults living with mental illness and in need of behavior modification and skill building Behavioral Health Assessments Psychological evaluations for individuals living with mental illness
COUNSELING
Individual, group and family psychiatric therapy.
PHONE: 240-459-8423 FAX: 419-931-9255 WWW.CMNTYCARE.COM INFO@CMTYCARE.COM
MEN'S MENTAL HEALTH: WHY HAS
IT BECOME THE SILENT EPIDEMIC???
MEN...
We See You Trying to Heal... We Are Rooting For You! Don't Quit!
#NOSHAME
It's Time to Talk About Men's Mental Health! We Are Warriors Fighting Together - Depression Didn't Get a Win Here
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 09
Section
Where My Soldiers At? We Are Warriors Fighting Together
Depression Didn't Get A Win Here
Photo by Cash Captures
Even when my back is against the wall, I have hope... I just take one step at a time.
Shirt: Fashion Nova fashionnova.com Bookbag: Naw I'm Just Pretty Brand Glasses: Imani
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 11
Facing it head on...I too see the warrior in me. Slacks & Vest: Steve Harvey
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"What's Broken can be Mended. What Hurts can be Healed and No Matter How Dark it Gets, the Sun is going to Rise Again."
Pea Coat: Kenneth Cole Glasses: Imani
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 13
"Your life is a journey. We are meant to go through pain and push forward. We are not meant to lay down and give up. The strong are chosen and tested not broken. No matter what life throws at you continue to push forward. One day you’ll be smiling walking in your purpose saying thank you that pain made me stronger." ~Craig "Coop" Cooper
POSITIVE STEPS FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Accept who you are Learn to love yourself Trust Yourself Watch your thoughts Deal with your fears Talk About It Keep Going; Stay Active Ask for Help Find time to Relax Keep in touch with your friends; avoid isolation Get Involve/ Share your story Use your creativity to cope
Journaling Exercise Eat nutritional meals and snacks Take some time and read self help books Pray/Meditate Take your medication See your therapist regularly Stay Away from Triggers!
www.wefightfoundation.org
POETRY CORNER When I was a Child By: Denise A. Kelley
Unfortunately, in some instances, one doesn’t realize they actually need help, until they’re well into their adult years. The truth of the matter is, some of our issues take root as a child. Oftentimes it goes undetected, because we are children, and for that reason alone, sometimes things are ignored, that need close attention. The theory of ‘ignore it and it’ll go away’, is not an effective theory to live by. I believe when signs of self-esteem issues are noticed in young children, it should be addressed immediately. A three year old should not care if their socks don’t match, and furthermore, a three year old should not care if someone makes fun of them because their socks don’t match. It’s at that time one should grab a hold to that three year old and let him or her know there’s nothing wrong with their mix-matched socks. Yes, we live in a world which is governed by a set of rules and regulations. I whole heartedly believe in abiding by guidelines, but we should teach our children how to identify the fine line of being law-abiding and allowing someone else’s mere opinions change who they are.
Between the ages of 0-3, I didn’t even know there was a ‘ME’. In the world without one care, Would roam around the house in my underwear, Or maybe even bare.
Hormones took over, and introduced the teenage years. In came the self-hate, doubt, and fear. The need to fit in became a priority. I began to adjust my authentic self, due to other’s opinion of me.
Between the age of 4-5, guess that’s when my personality started to thrive. Guess around that age I started to realize I was a person. Guess around that age I started to realize I was alive.
The teenage years flew by and in no time I was grown, By this time I’d built walls and barriers, And wanted to be alone.
Between the ages of 6-9, gradually becoming more aware. Developed a complex when the girls in school would point, snicker and stare. Between the ages of 10-12 Self-esteem began to prevail. Started to pay closer attention to my appearance, hair, clothes, and nails. And it all started when I was a child.
I’d long since lost my true identity. I was a shell of the me GOD created me to be. I’d long since lost my smile Anxiety, depression, and the desire to ‘people please’ was running wild, And it all started when I was a child.
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 15
I Never Understood an Alcoholic’s Pain By: Talona Smith
I never understood an alcoholic’s pain, Until I tried to ease my own. I never knew why alcoholics drank so much, Until I was faced with loss and abuse. I often criticized alcoholics, Until my life was thrown off course. The pain at times was insufferable; Nothing I care to explain. I pleaded for my life to be over. Not once did I expect to feel like this. My breath shortened; chest tightened. My head throbbed with each thought. Why Lord is this happening to me? Irritated, enraged, disgusted, confused. Don’t talk to me. Just get away from me. Get out of my face. Why won’t this pain go away? I need a drink. Have to get numb. I don’t want to feel this pain. Time to relax my mind. Just want to sleep through the night. Arguments are my dreams. Fights took over my imagination. Gnawed the inside of my mouth. Clamped down and cracked a tooth. The bed is spinning, the room is turning. Fifth drink and now I’m out. Never again would I cast judgment. On someone just like me.
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The Antagonist By: Tor White
Imagine taking a breath Inhale to exhale, only you can’t The knot in your throat won’t allow your breath to fully escape You feel like you’re gasping for air and if only you could speak Thump Th Thump Th Thump Th Thump The sound of your heartbeat You’re grabbing your ears because of the intensity Breathless The want to gather your thoughts is unattainable The walls are closing in and standing is becoming much too difficult Give Up! Give Up! Is what your mind screams Thrown into a fire pit your palms are sweaty You want to call out for help but you know no one will hear you Powerless
OUR VOICES MATTERS Platform for 18 and under
POETRY CORNER
When Life Brings You Down By: Lorelai Symmes
when life brings you down: you cannot hold me down i will no longer lay on the ground my words will unlock the chains my voice will end this twisted game i am no longer a slave to you i am myself that will always be true give up now, or you will find that this beautiful soul holds much inside
The Light You Give By: Lorelai Symmes
the light you give: the world would be different without your light the stars would stop shining throughout the night the breeze would stop blowing and the oceans would a world without you just isn’t enough 18 | rallyupmagazine.com | Winter 2020
MEN MENTAL Some Warning Signs to Get Help
K S U I C I D A L T H O U G H T S J I H P S N O
A A W Q R Z M Q E P S R G I E D P H G S Z T G P
S U K X J F H O Z E U I T L V K Q C A B V O N U
T M K A O C S J O M L K E Q I D D O C Z Z R I J
E F M M A C O R G D T B N E F W B D J W J L T A
H S A D N E S S O Z C S A G H K Y T H S W G A P
C N Q N E B R O L I V H E T R D M W Y U V O R C
N Q U W O O I M N T V H A C I A B G Y S X U T Q
S V T P A I O I X D Y A N N E R G G E N D E N R
T B M I K C T N C O U M H N G P R V E K M E E D
R J K B I Q P A L G B M T E B E I I Z U L Q C B
E Y U P M N L M C F S Y P J B S S X B O I A N S
S K D Q K T V B J I H D R A S L Q H J B I B O D
S U Y E C Q J R C O D Y H E M Z A G X N J Q C Q
E I L C P U C W K Z A E R H M R I U M V H E Y L
D D Q E P R V R G F C G M H G N J O S O L I T P
S E P X R E E M U M G D V F C F S M P U M B L O
A Q Z K E J E S G A H Q X P L N Q E R G N K U V
H X C T G C R B S A L H D A I E L K P Z G U C Q
T Q R U N N T R G I Z D Z N C E S D N J Q T I A
G A M V A F J E M E O F I J S J K L Y R G Y F P
Y R R O W U J L D M G N P S X Y Z C C D T Y F D
U A L R Z G I J J R M O F U R X K G V Y J A I G
G M H I G H R I S K A C T I V I T I E S T Z D Q
Youth Mind Over Matter Answer Key
High Risk Activities Anger Difficulty Concentrating Irritable Sadness Stressed Unusual Behaviors Suicidal Thoughts
Aggressive Insomnia Hopeless Mood Changes Selfmedication Depression Worry
YOU'RE NOT ALONE! Overseer: Lex Morgan
This is a place for young people to connect with one another using authenticity and courage. In a world where its easy to feel like you must figure things out alone and no one understands, we’re here to remind you that you matter, and You Are Not Alone! #BeScaredDoItAnyway
WE WELCOME
All Races and Ethnicities All Religions All Countries of Origin All Gender Indentities All Sexual Orientations All Abilities and Disabilities All spoken languages All Ages Everyone.
WE STAND HERE WITH YOU YOU ARE SAFE HERE
20 | rallyupmagazine.com | Winter 2020
Identity Search For a long time, I let everyone else around me write my story. I was the main character with no voice. I let everyone determine what would happen in the next chapter. How my plot twisted and how my story would end. It wasn’t until I was at my lowest and no one truly understood me, but me when I realized it was time to live my life according to me. I would write my story the way I wanted. I learned that it would be very difficult to tell a story when you don’t even know the main character. I didn’t know who I was; that was the beginning of my story. I went on an identity search. During it all, I realized that I was afraid of myself. I was afraid to be alone with my own thoughts. I was afraid to uncover my truth. The fear of vulnerability and weakness continued to block my growth and character development. I wanted to find myself, without the bad and ugly. Without the rough days and tears. Without the cracks in the road. My idea that vulnerability made me weak, slowly changed to making me stronger and more able to be me. I found that through expression and truth, I was able to learn and grow from all my thoughts and feelings I had about myself. Good or bad. I learned that the more I blocked people out of my life in fear of judgement and disapproval, the further away I was from myself. I began to grow, when I let the real me show and allow people to see my tears, my laughter and smiles. When I let them see my ups and downs. When I would break down and when I stood back up. When I became unapologetically me. It’s never too late to take charge of your story and write your own narrative.
Theresa Kumazah, 18 Montgomery County, MD
Why Is Mental Health Important? ~Anonymous
In the song, “Teach Me”, Musiq Soulchild begs his partner to teach him how to love her the right way and how to be an active and supporting part of their relationship. Throughout the song, he tells his partner that he’s been taught to not show his feelings, to remain strong, and provide for his family. He pleads the fact he was never taught how to be a loving partner and therefore all his relationships in his adult life have failed. Many times, especially as men, other people project their opinions and insecurities on us, trying to shape the way we think and behave. Oftentimes, these projections affect our personal relationships, but the real issue is the mental battle these projections spark. The war between how we are versus the way we have been told to be. This mental war between our true identity versus the identity projected onto us can drive a person into states of depression or simply drive a person crazy. While we live in a world that is constantly changing, and in a time where everyone is trying to be something they’re not, living for social status or to impress others, it is important we know who we really are. It is important that we take our mental health seriously and that we strive to make sure we are as healthy mentally as possible. While our parents and others around us may have taught us that as men we are not allowed to have feelings or that to have a sense of our mental state is weak, or even that being mentally fit is weak, it is up to us to take the necessary steps to make sure we are mentally healthy.
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 21
Be GR8 Today All Day Everyday! Continue the FIGHT to spread mental awareness and educate people on suicide prevention; especially in our minority communities.
: @gr8clothingline : GR8 Clothing Line : 2022772934
#youthmentalhealthmatters
Q & A with RWENSHAUN
MILLER MA, LPCA, NCC
Mental Health Change Agent
Founder of Eustress Inc. Charlotte, NC ur Editorial Director, "Niki" Powell-Cottman was able to have a heartfelt interview with Mental Health Change Agent, Rwenshaun Miller. Niki empathetically listened because his story reminded her of her daughter who is living with Bipolar Disorder. During the interview, Rwenshaun was open and honest about his challenges living with Bipolar Disorder and his overall mental health journey. He uses his personal experiences to educate other black males and break the stigma associated with mental health. Through his mental health journey after being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Rwenshaun founded Eustress Inc., a nonproďŹ t organization that focuses on raising mental health awareness through conversation and activities to break the stigma associated with mental illness in black communities. Rwenshaun is dedicated to making mental health treatment more accessible; especially for males of color. He believes in creating safe spaces for open and honest dialogue about mental illness.
Contact Info: : www.rwenshaun.com : info@rwenshaun.com : @rwenshaun
Be Who You Needed When You Were Younger Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 23
Mental health change agent, Rwenshaun Miller, is a psycho therapist, author, speaker, award-winning social entrepreneur and an executive producer of the short, called "lm Black Friday," which follows Rwenshaun and his fight to bring mental health awareness to the forefront of the black community. Rwenshaun is also an author of Injured Reserved: A Black Man's Playbook To Manage Being Sidelined by Mental Illness.
RUM: When were you diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder? RWENSHAUN: I was diagnosed in 2006 in my sophomore year at UNC Chapel Hill. Through conversation, my mom noticed that something was wrong and contacted my family. She called my family and my cousin came to my dorm room to take me to the hospital. There were visible signs prior to being taken to the hospital. I went 2 weeks without sleep, started hearing voices and lost 25 pounds in 6 weeks. My mom even noticed changes in my voice. RUM: How old were you when you first started to realize there was something going on? RWENSHAUN: I was 19 years old and had just started my sophomore year in college when things began to change for me. RUM: What were your triggers? RWENSHAUN: There were many triggers or things that contributed to the visible signs of my disorder. At the time I was transitioning from rural North Carolina. I was also understanding my identity and was an athlete playing Division One sports. Classwork, the pressures of college, sports, cultural and financial challenges were all stressors for me during this time. In 2006, I also had a knee injury that ended my sports career. So yes, there was a lot going on. RUM: What are some things a parent or love one can look for to determine if their child or love one needs help? RWENSHAUN: Pay attention and notice if something is different. Look for changes in “normal” behavior and try to
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understand why or what may have bought on these changes. Some of these changes are: • Low energy • Changes in eating habits • Significant changes in behavior patterns If changes persist, encourage the person to get help and to talk to someone. RUM: How were your teenage years prior to your change? RWENSHAUN: My teenage years were fine. Normal. I was well known…well, I was the man. It was fun. RUM: What is your greatest fear? RWENSHAUN: My greatest fear is not living up to my potential. RUM: How have you been able to conquer your fear? RWENSHAUN: I am a workaholic and a visionary. I won’t stop until I get the job done. I follow this in my private practice and in my non-profit organization. I don’t mind getting my hands dirty. RUM: Tell us about EUSTRESS... what does that mean and why did you choose that as the name for your non-profit organization? RWENSHAUN: Eustress means good and positive stress. I wanted to flip the word stress and teach people that stress can
be used to make us grow. I want to let people know that all stress isn’t bad. RUM: What defines you? RWENSHAUN: There are many things that define me. My work life for one. I am a family man, a student, and a dreamer. Most importantly I am a giver. This is the number one thing that defines who I am. RUM: After all you have been through, what do you see when you look in the mirror? RWENSHAUN: When I look in the mirror, I see a beacon of hope for black males that look like me. RUM: How important is it to have a support system? RWENSHAUN: Having a support system is everything. You can’t do anything alone. A support system helps keep you up in business, understanding who you are, basically in everything that you need. They provide a different perspective and remind us that we do not walk alone. Having someone to depend on is vital and it doesn’t just come from one person. Our support system should be diverse to avoid burning them out by utilizing the same people. Have a backup for your support system. It is also important to understand that caregivers aren’t always the support the person wants or needs. Just because a person wants to help doesn’t mean that is the person best suited to help. Communicating this is key. RUM: What’s the most difficult choice you had to make to regain your mental strength? RWENSHAUN: Learning how to block out or decipher what advice to take and define what healing was for me. I had to be conscious and intentional about learning who I am as a person and not letting the opinions of others define me. I also had to take ownership and learn who Rwenshaun is. RUM: Let’s talk about your suicidal attempts. How were the moments different? What place were you during these times? RWENSHAUN: There were different triggers, but to be honest I never fully healed. I stopped taking my medication thinking I was healed but my healing didn’t happen overnight. There were things that I had not addressed. I was self-medicating with alcohol. I didn’t properly heal or address unresolved issues. I was still in pain and in a state of emotional turmoil, I just wanted the pain I felt and the pain I believed I was putting others (family) through to stop. My perception and my reality at the time was more about wanting to end the pain than anything else. RUM: I must ask about your healing journey. What are some steps you take to continue your journey and remain mentally healthy? RWENSHAUN: I had to learn myself. I had to create boundaries such as knowing how to respond to people or knowing when to stop working. I have a self-care routine that
"Telling my story is my therapy and it allows others to see that mental health is real. It affects all ages, all races, and all genders. I just so happen to be young, black, educated and living with a mental health disorder. All these labels are just one part of me that allows me to be transparent and speak my truth." allows me to continue to give. This is non-negotiable. I have to eat, pray, exercise, color, read my devotionals, drink water, which are the basis of my daily plan. I MUST continue with my therapy. It doesn’t stop for me. Don’t let the success fool you. I have to continue my routine as a priority and implement discipline. I take a quote from my friend that says, “Discipline is a form of self-care.” I have adopted this, and I live by this. RUM: What would you say to someone in pain right now who may feel like someone else may not understand their pain? RWENSHAUN: Some people self-inflict to feel pain and feel human. My dose of pain was the gym. I would say don’t be afraid to talk to someone and ask for help. Be open to receiving help from other places, it may come from where you least expect it. Learn about and get educated on resources that are available to you. Do research. If finances are a problem, look for other options. Don’t be afraid to explore other healthy ways to address your need. Avoid being alone because being in your own head will not help.
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 25
THE GIFT OF PEACE
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27 (ESV)
Taken from the book
“DEVOTIONALS FOR THE MIND” by Andrae Hayden Available on Amazon.com
God promises peace of mind to the mentally troubled. The Peace of God is unexplainable. It is a level of peace that is beyond what we could ever understand or imagine. We must not dwell on our situation, but rather focus on God’s peace. It is a peace that only God can give and no man can take it away.
Daily Affirmation In my times of trouble, I will turn to you O God. I will not be afraid. You have given me a peace that others cannot understand. Your peace does not come from this world, and the world can’t take it from me. I will not be afraid for I know that you are with me always. Photo by Nitish Meena on Unsplash
Devotionals for a Queen is a devotional book that travels with you through many different stages in life. Life can bring about many changes as well as challenges. During their own journeys through young adulthood, authors Andrae Hayden and TJ Woodard experienced their share of hardships, as well as good times. Through the strength of Jesus Christ, the lessons they learned along the way led them on a path to spiritual maturity. They teamed up to create this powerful devotional unlike any other. Specifically crafting each devotional to encourage, and motivate its readers through various stages of Life. Devotionals for a Queen comes straight from their hearts to yours. It is transparent, heartfelt, and highlights some of the greatest scriptures and motivational quotes. Designed to empower you to be the royal Queen that God designed you to be. Andrae and Tamika pray that readers are inspired to go deeper into the person their savior desires them to be as believers. His love, strength, and peace will guide, and transform you into the Queen that he created you to be.
These are some of the experiences of men with unmet emotional needs. The ways men show up in the world may appear dysfunctional on the surface. External dysfunction is a sign of dysfunction that exists below the surface. A broken heart condition leads to destructive paths in attempts to numb pain and silence inner voices and/or struggles. I don’t know about you, but I find myself wondering how the unmet needs of men impact the frequency and severity of violence perpetuated by men. I imagine a soda can being vigorously shaken with no release. The contents remain contained until someone or something pops the lid…then BOOM! The pressure causes the contents to explode staining everything in proximity. The explosion is non-biased in what it stains. Now, if you would, imagine thousands and thousands of soda cans exploding at the same time. This is the reality I imagine for many men. Their explosions impact families, friends, careers and quality of life. Sometimes the pressure of being society’s definition of a man costs them their lives.
MATTERS OF MEN
By Lex Morgan
Who says that men don’t feel? Who says that men are emotionless beings whose sole purpose is to protect and defend? Society. Society says that men should bury their experiences and not talk about their traumas. Men are conditioned to believe that seeking mental health support somehow makes them less of a man. What about their broken hearts? Their insecurities and fears? “Suck it up!” This is the message that many men receive in response to their emotions.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) National Violent Death Reporting System, data from 27 states participating in 2015 report that 84% percent of males who died by suicide had no known mental health conditions. 69% was the percentage of males with a known mental health condition who died by suicide. These percentages lend evidence to the need for deeper understanding of the emotional needs of men. For more information, visit (https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/suicide/index.html#anchor_1508944723). Here is a resource for men who are interested in exploring support for themselves: Men UNITE - https://menunite.org/
Men are taught from an early age to “be tough” and are often told “Real men don’t cry”, and to “Stop acting soft!” This is all in response to men who express their emotions. Men who are told to hide their emotions is the strong but unfortunately harmful message conveyed through these and other equally insensitive statements.
Here are some ways we can help:
Above all else, men are human beings. Men feel. Men experience vulnerable emotions. Rarely, however, do men feel safe enough to emote. Why? Because society says, in part, that a man who expresses emotions, especially, vulnerable emotions is weak. What happens to the well-being of a man who feels he doesn’t have permission to emote in healthy ways or when he doesn’t have a safe place to just…be? In many cases, his mental health suffers.
• Affirm men regularly; the simple things really matter.
• PROMISCUITY • VERBAL ABUSE • EMOTIONAL ABUSE • GAMBLING
#menmentalhealthmatters
• INFIDELITY • PHYSICAL ABUSE • SUBSTANCE ABUSE
• Acknowledge men for their positive contributions to our lives and to the world. • Demonstrate gratitude.
I am not a man, I am, among other roles, the mother of two sons, a sister of 3 brothers, and a daughter. I honor men, their humanity and the roles they serve. I’ve had a front row seat to the devastation caused by men with broken heart conditions. I have also witnessed the beauty of men who courageously embark on their healing journeys. Men are incredibly powerful contributors to humanity. We need them. We are in this together. The matters of men matter.
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 27
ANGER MISUNDERSTOOD By Amanda Fludd, LCSW-R
www.amandaudd.com | @therapyisdope Photo by Ola Dapo from Pexels
Anger is one of those emotions we are afraid to talk about or deal with, but, it’s like any other emotion that shows up to let us know that something may be wrong. All of us get angry at some point, maybe when something isn’t fair, someone has done us wrong, or something happens that is beyond our control like being stuck in traffic or missing a flight. The experience of the emotion can range from a little annoyed to straight name calling with ruthless digs, self-criticism (because some anger is expressed inwardly), or the worst-case scenario, physical aggression (the more familiar outward aggression). It’s a hot topic for most Americans with one in ten experiencing severe levels of anger, and most not even knowing their anger style. Huh, what is that? Let’s chat.
ANGER STYLES There are four basic ways in which people respond to anger: 1. AGGRESSIVE: If one is aggressive, there is no filter. It is where one has a tendency to lash out without thinking, becoming physically or verbally aggressive. This style guarantees emotional or physical harm to yourself or someone else. It can look like bullying, hurtful memes, fighting, shouting, criticism, accusations, sarcasm, intimidation and full-blown rage. This style usually represents a need to be in control and involves preserving your views and needs at the expense of others. 2. PASSIVE/AGGRESSIVE: How you feel is under lock and key or is internalized. You may not always admit that you are angry or express it. It usually looks like withdrawing in an argument, using the silent treatment, sulking, acting as if you are okay or showing anger indirectly through procrastination or sabotage. This style doesn’t like confrontation and uses it as a form of control when a situation is perceived to be out of control. 3. ASSERTIVE: The healthiest way to deal with anger. These
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individuals can think before they speak (or use a coping skill first) and remain controlled and confident under stress. They communicate what they need, actively listen and are open to help with dealing with a situation.
TAKING BACK CONTROL Ask yourself about what your anger wants you to know and if the way you communicate it represents who you are as a person. Does your current form of expression allow others to treat you with respect? Does it express your authentic needs or demonstrate your core values? Is it constructive? Does it leave room for the opinions of others? Does it know how to be direct and clear and turn off at the right time? Anger has a purpose and tells a story…your story. “You should be angry. You must not be bitter. Bitterness is like cancer. It eats upon the host. It doesn’t do anything to the object of its displeasure. So, use that anger. You write it. You paint it. You dance it. You march it. You vote it. You do everything about it. You talk it. Never stop talking it.” — Iconoclasts, 2006 Maya Angelou
TAKE THE TEST
Check off what you relate to: SECTION A • When in a disagreement, my voice easily escalates. • Some people are afraid to see me mad. • My anger accelerates quickly. • I have said malicious things about others to get back at them when I’m angry. • It’s hard to keep my thoughts to myself when it is obvious that the other person is wrong. • I like being blunt and speaking my mind. • I have serious arguments with people who care about me, sometimes for no reason. SECTION B • I consistently find outlets for my anger to avoid building up like working out in the gym, reading, talking to friends, yoga or mindfulness. • I’ve said things in anger that I knew I needed to apologize for and, I did. • I don’t sweat the small stuff and pick and choose my battles. • In most situations, I would say I have control over my anger. • I can let others know when I need help or when I need space to think or calm down. • I am known for speaking my point and being clear about my needs and feelings. • I am able to say ‘no’ or set boundaries when necessary. SECTION C • I have a hard time forgiving people. • I often agree to do things when I don’t really want to. • I usually just keep my frustrations and problems to myself.
• There are times I don’t trust my own opinions or thoughts. • Sometimes it takes me longer than I would want to, to get over being angry. • Unknown to others, I experience a great deal of resentful thinking. • I can be difficult to approach or hostile towards those who upset me. WHICH SECTION HAD THE MOST CHECKS? If you ended up with more A’s you have an aggressive style of communication and anger is handling you. ACTION STEPS: 1. Your anger is really telling you there is something deeper that needs attention. It may be a good idea to talk to a therapist about it to unpack that story. 2. Invest in learning a few steps to put some space between your reactions and situations. Try ten quick breaths before responding, excuse yourself and take a short walk, indulge in the aroma and tastes of your favorite foods as a form of distraction, or use a journal or your phone to write what you feel. MORE B’S: You have an assertive style of expressing your anger and can express your needs without defensiveness or coercion, while considering the needs of others. You are probably more aware of what gets you upset and know what to do when upset. Since no one is perfect, it’s great to consider how to strengthen your communication skills. ACTION STEPS: 1. Are there new coping skills you want to develop? Maybe starting an art class or increasing your mindfulness practices. 2. Take some time to reflect on any areas in your life that can cause anger or frustration at times. Consider what may be the cause of that and one step you can take to resolve it. MOSTLY C’S: You have a tendency to keep things inside and not expose your own anger with this passive aggressive style. While it can be good to move past or dismiss some emotional experiences, it doesn’t always mean your problem with anger is resolved. After a while, what we avoid or ignore can take a toll on ourselves or others. ACTION STEPS: 1. Practice saying what you feel, keeping it simple and to the point. “I feel _____ when you ____, can you please ___”. See what that does for you and your relationships when you practice being honest and open about your needs. 2. Set goals to make things happen for you and put them up where you can see them daily. Share what you want with others and take chances towards your goals. If you never speak up and keep waiting to be heard, life will sail on by. “Passive aggressive behavior consumes unnecessary time and resources. Say what you mean, let’s resolve the issue, and move on to more productive tasks.” Victoria Odiase Anger is a phenomenal emotion, and it’s okay to feel it, take a look at it and release it. You can learn a lot about yourself by being a little curious about what makes you angry. We hope you found this quiz helpful. If you want more support around anger, feel free to email your questions to….(RallyUp info). You can find Amanda Fludd, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at: www.amandafludd.com.
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 29
Aldin Gordon is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland and was one of the presenters on Men in Therapy, a Facebook Live discussion @Therapyisdope earlier this year. He is a Board Approved Supervisor in substance abuse, mental health, marriage and family and art therapies and completed his MA Degree from Canisius College in Buffalo, NY. Speaking from experience is something that clearly flows from Mr. Gordon, and right in align with that, the word that he feels best describes him is, “educator”. People often ask, “Why is it so hard to find a male counselor”, well it’s because women now make up the vast majority of the profession, although minority women, and minority males remain on the endangered species list. Rally UP however, found a male mental health provider and wanted to introduce you to him and his work around mental health. Why an educator? We asked Mr. Aldin. “I started school at the age of two after crying to go with my older sister, Charlene. Since the age of two, I attended school until the age twenty-nine. Over that time I learned to become an educator and during my breaks used every opportunity to teach. I taught during the summer, after school, for tutoring programs, undergraduate and graduate classes. It was natural for me to become an educator in my career. As a therapist, I utilize a variety of sources to engage my consumers such as history, current events, sports, the dictionary, DSMV, etc”. “EDUCATION FOR ME IS THERAPEUTIC” –ALDIN GORDIN That experience with learning was evident in one of his early childhood memories that put him on the path to becoming a therapist. “My goal at all times is to use education to create knowledge. During the Spring of my sophomore year at Boys and Girls High School, I took three regents exams and passed all three. I was now recognized by certain teachers”. With that he was, “allowed certain privileges,” and gained a high level of respect at the school. “One day, I was hanging around school with my friends and we walked into Mr. Logan’s classroom, while he was tutoring students for the US Government regent’s exam. He walked out, telling the class “Aldin’s got this”, leaving me in charge to tutor the class”. That was the beginning of my career as an educator”. Along his journey, he incorporated training in substance abuse and counseling and became a substance abuse counselor and mental health therapist”. Without question there is a need for therapists in this area, with 8.5 million American adults suffering from both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder, or co-occurring disorders in 2017 alone.1 In Aldin’s professional capacity he has been able to use his training in teaching to show up for others and guide them using education in creative ways. Aldin says, “I educate people by utilizing different modalities of education to help to create knowledge”. “MAN UP”
Aldin regularly see’s men in his practice and shared some of the misconceptions men have about therapy from his experience. “Man up is one of the most debilitated concept that I have ever come across. Man up means, not to recognize/admit/show emotions because doing so is a sign of weakness. Men learn this from their parents, adults, siblings, friends, etc. and it is re-confirmed by school, teams, work, society, etc. A man up approach prevent men from recognizing when help is needed thus denying the need for help. It also gives a false sense of hope and security, which leave men in isolation and despair. This then becomes a downward spiral of dysfunctional beliefs and thought patterns, unhealthy relationships and decision- making”. This restriction we put on men may be one of the biggest reasons they don’t embrace therapy as a crucial part of their health. We are also inadvertently reinforcing that their problems don’t matter.
DEAR AMANDA
FACTS: Your mental health doesn’t care who you are. It doesn’t discriminate based on race, color, gender, socioeconomic status, or identity. Anyone can experience the challenges of poor mental health that can easily cross the line to un treated mental illness. To all the men out there, we want to be clear, you matter, and so does your mental health. A few great tips to find a therapist? Well according to Aldin, “know yourself, know what works for you, be honest, be open-minded”. We agree with that because therapy is a process, it takes time, and when you aren’t use to people listening to you, or validating what bothers you, it can be straight up weird. Charlamagne, shared with The Hill2 the challenges of asking for help, especially for black men, “It’s hard to get help when you’re still in the middle of the hurt – If you’re still in the hood, if you’re still in these bad situations, it’s hard to see yourself on the outside.” Big Sean, who has also been open about his struggles with depression and anxiety since a teen shared with essence.com that for him, “therapy became a game changer”. The secret it out, men do go to therapy. If you are in the Baltimore area and want to work with Aldin, especially if substance use or abuse is a part of your life, you can find him at: AMA Transitional Services 1407 Lochner Road Suite 0 Baltimore, MD 21239 Ph: 443-475-0338 F: 410-878-0382 Or look him up or other providers in your area at www.psychologytoday.com. Additional Resources: For Therapy: https://therapyforblackmen.org/ Support Groups for Alcohol and Recovery: https://startyourrecovery.org/treatment/support-groups SAMHSA’s National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357) SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders Thank you Mr. Aldin Gordon for all the work you do in the realm of Mental Health. Interviewed by Amanda Fludd, LCSW-R @therapyisdope Source: [1]. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2018). Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. [2]. ttps://thehill.com/hilltv/rising/413626-charlamagne-tha-god-challenges-mental-health-stigma-in-black-community
When I feel alone who can I turn to when no one listens and I feel like hurting myself? Elizabeth B. Forestville, MD Every day in America someone experiences a negative thought like hurting themselves. Self-harm is more common than people realize, with teens having the highest rate of self-injurious behaviors. It can be pretty scary and the number one thing that people say, is exactly what you are saying Elizabeth, they want someone to talk to, who will listen. If you are regularly having this experience and can’t find anyone in your circle who can tune in to what’s happening or actively listen, try stepping out of that circle. Sometimes our close-knit circle just aren’t equipped to see that there is something wrong. They may not know or understand how to respond in a meaningful way, and that’s ok. Life has us all so distracted sometimes that we can barely hear ourselves. What is phenomenal Elizabeth, is that you are listening to your emotions and the fact that it’s telling you something is up and you do need to talk but also that you are reaching out. So what to do? Here are some ways to handle those urges, cope with strong emotions and feel heard.
Photo by Stanley Morales from Pexels
Everything you need to know about
Mental Health
• TEXT FOR SUPPORT: A listening ear is right at your fingertips! Send a text to someone who is available 24/7 and can lend you some tools to cope with your emotions in healthy ways and without judgment, remember they can’t see you. Text a crisis counselor at: 741471 or 494949. • TALK IT OUT: Sometimes a voice on the other end is all you need - try the 24 hour national support line: 1-800-273-8255 The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. • A BIT OF DISTRACTION: Get involved with something intensely soothing like taking a cold shower (which instantly regulates the central nervous system), do a 30-minute workout, grab a pencil and get creative, or engage in a mindfulness or meditation practice to ground yourself and put some space between the urges to do something. If that urge persists and you are worried about your actions, it’s ok to call 911, or for more ongoing support, find professional support like a Psychiatrist or licensed Psychotherapist. • TALK TO A PRO: While this may be a common experience, self-harm or thoughts of not wanting to be here or hurting yourself is serious. While the intention can vary, and isn’t always about dying, but an intense need for support and skill, it’s nothing to take lightly. Talking to a professional who is trained to be present and help you find alternatives and learn new skills to cope may be the next most important step you take.
For those supporters responding to friends, family, or strangers in need, a few quick tips for you too: • Stay calm and present • Ask questions and accept him or her even if you don’t understand what their experience is • Listen with compassion • Avoid invalidating statements like “get over it” or “it’s not that bad or serious” or “I don’t have time for this” • Let them know your limits, but that you are willing to stay with them until they can get to a professional who can help • Look into more training for yourself like Mental Health First Aid or the Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) ASIST is a two-day interactive workshop in suicide first-aid. ASIST teaches participants to recognize when someone may be at risk of suicide and work with them to create a plan that will support their immediate safety. • Be compassionate with yourself and know you don’t have to have all the answers. Thank you for your courage with this question. You’ve helped so many people and I wish you the best on your journey to great mental health. Amanda Fludd, LCSW-R www.amandafludd.com RallyUp Magazine
30 | rallyupmagazine.com | Winter 2020
Negative Thinking, Rape, Lust, Sickness, Ungratefulness, Tragedy, Worthlessness, Domestic Violence, Death. Do any of these words resonate with you? The powerful testimonies of Lakesha and four Featured Overcomers are designed to instill hope and inspire you to begin experiencing the overwhelming freedom that can be found in overcomingjust as they did!
Born Overcomers
Are you dating, considering dating or have dated and tired of making the same mistakes? Have you given up on finding love altogether? TJ Woodard and Alton L. Fitch shows you that following God's instructions as it pertains to dating will change the course of your relationship. They encourage you to recognize you are royalty and should be treated as the Queens that you are. God has someone He designed especially for you, and if we stay on course He will give you the desires of your heart.
#overcomersguide
bit.ly/notdiscouraged
Dear Fear Volume 3 by: Tiana Patrice booklaunch.io/tjwoodard
Dear Fear Volume 3 is a book by visionary author Tiana Patrice that consists of powerful stories by women who have had to look fear in the face and push through adversities. “Activating your Fearless” is what Coach T calls it. TJ Woodard is one of those women who tells her story in this book compilation where she shares having to grow up with the secret of being molested and hiding it for years. This secret crippled her most of her life silencing her in so many ways. In this book she finds that her voice has power in her chapter titled, “Dear Fear…You Can’t Have My Voice!”
www.nekesanaturalradiance.com
Are you willing to discover who God created you to authentically be? Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery! Discover ing what part of your identity is authentic and what part is counterfeit. Every person's experience will be different as the Holy Spirit begins to reveal identities you are living from.
Overcoming
Indentity Crisis
Trauma and life experiences shapes personalities and identities we live from every day. Many of these identities are counterfeit, they are not who we are! I wrote this book to share how God led me out of an identity crisis into wholeness, and as a tool for the Holy Spirit to unlock your true identity.
By: Nikki Pinkney
Life After Trauma
By: Vanity Dawson
The author shares how to go from being broken to brave, beautiful and then blesses. The reader will get a dynamic story along with some tips and hardcore advice for the readers.
She learnt through struggle how to use her negative life experiences to push and encourage herself. In doing this, she was able to move past her negative thoughts of self, and into a woman of enormous strength. Later, she turnes that strength into motivation and was able to accomplish her goals, as well as understand how strong, smart and beautiful she was, but first she had to soothe the musing of her own mind.
This book is powerful! it will motivate anyone who wants to feel good by showing them exactly how to make that happen.
By: Kendra Hathaway
www.takemyhandco.org FB:TakeMyHandLLC IG: vanityd_tmh
In the book “Respect the Shoulder Tap” a young woman who was tormented by her experiences as a child, later finds that she does not have enough self-confidence to do the things necessary to move forward in her life.
The Feel Good Movement is a story about unbelievable strength, grace and determination.
The Feel Good Movement!
With God, you will make it through any storm, trauma, or bad experience! How can there be beauty in a traumatic experience? Oh, there certainly is and Vanity can tell you first-hand how from her experience. God brings us true healing from the after effect of our trauma. Trauma impairs our thought process, our relationships with other people and ourselves, and how we behave. However, God repairs and restores us back to how He purposed us. He repairs us in ways better than before we experienced trauma. He takes what was meant to hurt us, set us back, or destroy us and turns it into a beautiful story. He turns it into an experience that we have overcame and can help the people around us that are experiencing the same or similar things. Our traumatic experiences aren’t for us to harbor but to share hope and faith with the people around us that they too can make it through. With God, you will make it through any storm, trauma, or bad experience. Just hold onto faith in Him and trust His process.
Respect the Shoulder Tap
By: Kendra Hathaway
This book will inspire any person looking to learn how to motivate themselves and move forward in their lives. If you need some encouragement to press forward, this book is for you.
MEN
CRY TOO By Talona Smith
grew up in a small town where everyone knows each other…or at least know someone you are related to. A town where most of the communities rally together to support our youth’s education, athletics and activities. Our small town was shaken to the core when we lost two young men in their early 20s to suicide in the same year. Did anyone notice a sign? Did anyone know to look for a sign? Does anyone know the signs? Men are fed images of strength at a young age. They are often told that “men don’t cry,” especially in front of women. They are told to toughen up. That crying is a sign of weakness. How are men supposed to heal from heartache, grief, brokenness? Where are men supposed to go when they don’t have the answer or can’t make ends meet? How are they supposed to rest when they get weary? How long are they supposed to suppress the pain of neglect or abuse? How long are they supposed to stay silent about how they feel? Who is supposed to help them when they feel that all hope is gone? Men work hard to keep up the stigma of carrying the world on their shoulders, being fearless, a provider, protector and a great lover. Not to mention being attractive, intelligent, wealthy, spiritual, having a powerful physique and a comical sense of humor. Remember, men get tired too. Often subjected to emotional distress and mental anguish, they too experience being exhausted and burned out. They feel emotional pain from depression. Pain demands to be felt. It will happen regardless of how you try hide it. Whether they press through and allow it
to take its course, or resort to a temporary fix to detach themselves from feeling it, men experience pain. Some men, even in their strong stature will hold on to emotional pain until they erupt. Education and awareness are essential to recognizing signs of depression and mental issues. Sometimes breaking away from stressors can help men sort through their struggles and give them a sense of independence. Something as simple as a hobby, taking a walk, fishing, or doing nothing at all can be a start to a mental reboot. Men may not be as forth coming to disclose their need to discuss emotional instability with someone. Some are in denial. Some may feel embarrassment. Some may hide depression with anger. Some men would rather mask their feelings with their strength than to show vulnerability. What we can do is respect their space and show them love. Love alone may not be enough. Men need a support system too. Even if they are too stubborn to acknowledge it. It is vital for men to be encouraged to seek professional counseling to learn coping techniques and receive treatment, if necessary. Don’t expect men to be totally transparent in revealing all their emotions at once. It may take time.
WHY DON'T MEN TALK TO THEIR DOCTORS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH? • • • • • • •
Ive learned to deal with it I have no one to talk to I don't want to appear weak I don't want to be a burden on anyone I'm too embarrased I don't want to admit I need help There's a negative stigma
www.wefightfoundation.org
LIES OF SUICIDE
YOU’RE...
Unlovable. WOrthLESS. USELESS. Impossible. Hopeless.
www.wefightfoundation.org
Nikita Powell-Cottman Anxiety & Seasonal Depression
Vanity Dawson Bipolar Disorder & Depression
Tai Campbell Depression & Anxiety
Kenai Hollingsworth Suicide Survivor, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD
Neta Vaught Suicide Survivor, Depression, Anixety, PTSD
Mental Health Warrior Zone vii
Fighting Back Against the the Battlefields of Our Mind Real People, Real Stories...Overcomers! Read previous warriors stories in the Warrior Zone at:
Lorelai Symmes OCD, Anorexia, PTSD
Dasia Wood Suicide Survivor, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD & Depression
Kayla Sampson Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar
www.rallyupmagazine.com Tamika Woodard Anxiety & Depression
Lawrence Durden Depression
Jada Carrington Anxiety & Depression
Tanzania Fair Depression & Suicidal Ideation
Craig Cooper Depression & Suicidal Ideation
Tyshia Douglas Depression
Elyse Lancaster Suicide Survivor
Lawrence
Durden
y name is Lawrence Durden. I suffered from Depression during my second marriage due to abuse. You don’t seem to notice it at first when it starts. If you think someone knows more about a subject than you then you tend to believe them until you research the truth. My second wife used manipulation, lies, mental and physical abuse to beat me into a depression. She did not like how everyone felt that I was such a great guy and I that I always smiled. This resulted in the abusive actions directed towards me. Some of the things she did were meant to torment me. So, she would do things like throw outrageous fits of rage where she would break things in our apartment. She would hit me with things, knowing that I would not hit a woman. She believed that because I am a man and she is a woman, that I would automatically get put in jail for trying to restrain her from hitting me even if I didn’t hit her. She pulled a knife on me in my sleep and woke me up with a knife to my throat. Eventually, when she realized nothing she did worked and I would not touch her, she started lying to the police. One time she even punched herself in the leg to cause a bruise so she could report it to the police. I went to jail and when they set bail, she bailed me out. It was ridiculous. All the while I sank deeper and deeper into depression. It was obvious that she was dealing with her own issues, however, this is still abuse. I wanted out of the marriage; I wanted a divorce. I didn’t know if that was even possible. I wanted to die but I believe you go to
hell if you die. I could not win for losing. After the third time of her lying on me, getting me thrown in jail and being in a marriage where I had to walk on eggshells because I did not know what personality I was going to get from my wife at the time, I knew it was time to go. God told me I was better than that. I knew He had promised me a wife that would love me, and that I was going to financially recover, I trusted Him. I trusted God even though I felt discouraged because of the jail time I had served and the charges I was facing. It didn’t help that I was getting divorced for the second time. God had a plan. I knew I needed to get my degree. My father always said, “get your education because that is something that cannot be taken from you.” That’s what I did. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Business Management. Although I began feeling much better, I knew it wasn’t enough for me. A week after completing my bachelor’s degree, I started my MBA program. I received an MBA in Finance 4 years later. In the midst of getting my MBA, I met my current wife and was hired as a full-time government employee. I completed my MBA in finance. I am making a decent salary to take care of my family. My wife and I have bought our first house together. We lived in it for a while, then sold it and upgraded to something new. I credit my testimony to the grace of God and Him bringing me out of the toxic situation and the depression that I was in. I now have a loving wife, two children that are wonderful and an adult daughter that lives in Ohio.
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 35
SECONDARY TRAUMA HURTS!
By: Kendra Hathaway, FLE, LLMFT
the children can’t hear the details. Some may even ask them to leave the room, and this is also okay.
Photo Credit: Mosuno Media (Stocksy.com)
id you know? …Children can experience symptoms of trauma, not only from something happening to them, but they can also experience secondary trauma from witnessing or even hearing about an event. Secondary trauma, which is an indirect exposure to firsthand accounts or narrative, can be incurred from children or adults seeing or even hearing disturbing descriptions, inflictions of cruelty, discouraging beliefs, negative/ intrusive tones, and many other events that could traumatize them. This type of thing happens more frequently to adults who are first responders, physicians, mental health providers, children whose parents have experienced trauma, etc. If an adult can be exposed to secondary trauma, the chances of it happening to a child are more likely. Moreover, the things we as adults can listen to with minimal impact, are not always good for our children to hear. In fact, children should be protected from hearing these things. Children sometimes look at this type of thing as a parent being mean, but in reality, this is a safety precaution. It’s not being mean as a parent or grandparent when you freeze a conversation so that
For example, take into consideration a child hearing a story about someone being slaughtered and cut into pieces. Can you imagine how this could affect the child’s thoughts afterwards? Did you know that secondary trauma could have an effect on a child’s development, possibly affecting their sense of security? It could also force a child to distrust their parents and or not believe that they can protect them. If you heard a story similar to this, how would it effect you? As adults, we can become desensitized to hearing about death or events of someone being harmed, but it’s still very important to remember the emotional immaturity and sensitivity of our children. When a parent or authority figure shields the ears of a child, it is being a responsible and protective adult who understands the need to protect children from things that could potentially be harmful or damaging to them. This should also include gossip, slander and other meaningless conversations. These conversations could end up being more damaging to a child rather than them being more nourishing, which is a better comparison. If this information is somehow leaked to a child, it is very important to ensure that they are debriefed. One way to do this is to allow the child to express how they feel about what they were exposed to. As an adult, you should listen and then validate the child’s feelings. You will need to reassure the child that they are safe and will be protected. These are just a few things you could do, however, you should contact your local mental health providers so they can assist you further. Overall, I think parents should do like the old folks use to, and when grownups are talking, tell your kids, “BYE”!!!
Kendra Hathaway, MA, LLMT, FLE
Family Life Educator, a Limited Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Self-help Author from Michigan. Kendra contracts with several different agencies and different facilities to meet her clients needs. Kendra specializes in working with African American women and young adults who are looking to improve their lives. Kendra also works with individuals with depression, anxiety, bi- polar disorders, adjustment disorder, etc. Kendra can be reached directly at: (586) 551-2757, or Kendrahathaway8111@gmail.com
Beautiful Chaos By TJ Woodard The dictionary defines beautiful as pleasing the senses or mind aesthetically. Chaos is defined as complete disorder and confusion. What this means when you put these two words together is that you can appear to be looking good, feeling good, sounding good but be in a state of disorder or confusion. In the upcoming launch of the Beautiful Chaos Collection that will preview in the We Fight Foundation’s Mental Health Fashion Show, this line will focus on the struggle of those who live with a mental illness. The war against oneself. The Beautiful Chaos show and collection will bring awareness to mental illness in a very controversial way. This will help to continue the conversation surrounding mental illness, suicide and depression. Be on the lookout for the Fashion show, the cosmetic line and the jewelry collection and support. If you are a model or aspiring model, makeup artist, designer who have been directly affected by mental illness we are looking for you.
RALLYUP CONVERSATIONAL MERCH What's RallyUp?
RallyUp is rallying up all our mental health/wellness warriors to FIGHT together! Not only saying #yournotalone but to be actively apart of the change by participating in the mental health community through advocacy, volunteering, providing resources, education and support. Fighting together to remove all stigmas surrounding mental health. To be a voice for all regardless of their diagnosis or mental struggles, we make sure they know it does not define who they are.
Purchase: www.rallyupmagazine.com
Challenges to Change
Paul B.
Williams MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW CEO of Bashea Williams, LLC Owner and Therapist at Hearts In Mind Counseling
"You either commit to your breakthrough or submit to your breakdown" ~Paul Bashea Williams
A
My Mental Challenges to Change s a kid, I struggled with being "shy" which was undiagnosed anxiety. It was being reserved or having, showing nervousness, or timidity in the company of other people at first. I then began to have physical symptoms of sweating, going into isolation, and avoiding people. That lasted for years, but to combat that I channeled an alter ego in a sense because I was lonely and missing out. I started adapting to everyone I encountered until I was exhausted being like others. Moving around a lot as a child didn't help any, but it helped with re-establishing who I was or wanted to be. I remember “fight or flight” being my motto. I used to get in a lot of fights because I struggled to communicate and build friendships. This created more isolation until I went into my previous behavior of adapting at my expense. As I reached my teenage years, I started to play basketball and that was my escape from life fears. I was able to play without racing thoughts; I felt free in the game. Until my game improved from all the hard work, then the pressure began from people to perform, deliver, win, and play great all the time. I put pressure on myself to always be the best. When my team would lose, I took the blame. I had an opportunity to get recruited by Division 1 schools to play basketball but when I was told they were at the game my anxiety levels rose high and I sabotaged my opportunities. I remember East Tennessee State University heard about me from North Carolina State University; the coach drove from Tennessee to Maryland to watch me play with friends and teammates from my neighborhood. While my friends were flattered, I was terrified, and it showed while playing. I wouldn’t shoot and I would just pass the ball, I missed plays, and I was disinterested. My neighborhood friends asked me why I wasn’t playing, but I didn't tell them. I made an excuse, but the coach offered me an opportunity to play in my old neighborhood with my old friends. When I returned there, my anxiety went with me. So, I stayed in my dorm room anxious and afraid. I called my mother and told her I
didn't want to play basketball again. She told me okay and I took a 12-hour bus ride home that same evening. I never played competitively again. Anxiety didn't just show up during basketball, it started to show up when I met people, when I had to speak in the front of the classroom, when I attended public events, and anywhere else you could think of. It wasn't until I acknowledged it and started to deal with it while working with my mentor. He encouraged me to go into the field of counseling and mental health because he believed I was always a helper and good listener. I was good at helping others because it gave me opportunities to ignore my problems and fears. As I studied Social Work, I learned a lot about myself. I fell in love with helping others through my vulnerabilities, personal experiences, and clinical knowledge. I wanted to be an example of healing and work. I strive to be this until this day. Today, I am a Clinically Licensed Therapist who consistently sees a Therapist. He is part of my self-care team. I needed a therapist because it was getting harder to manage life and I wanted to quit everything I was doing. I wanted a new life ALONE but hated being alone. I spent a lot of time helping others and neglected myself. I didn’t need to “fix me” but I needed a place to
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 39
address me, talk, share, vent, release, reevaluate, tweak, learn more about myself, and learn how to navigate life more effectively and safely. Having a social media “brand” can sometimes be overwhelming. Saying yes was even more overwhelming. Helping others takes up 70% of my day and is my calling, purpose, and passion. My job takes a lot of compassion, effort, energy, and investment. And not to mention being a single dad, black, and a man in a society that doesn’t promote vulnerability in manhood. It was and still can be overwhelming but I knew I had to practice what I preached and remain open to receiving back what I put out. I needed to do more than just pray but also participate in my mental well being. I had a conversation with God and heard, “you need to experience the gift that I’ve given to you”. In therapy, we came up with a plan that may not always work but it’s been a safe space to talk about it. I get to talk about not just whatever I want but I also get challenged to talk about the things I need to release. It has become my stage starring me, it’s about me, and I can be all of me without having to be the strong one or be judged.
I’ve experienced challenges even in dating, as a social worker and having been told by women: • I don’t make enough money for them to date me • Social workers can’t be breadwinners, and they need someone who can complement them financially. • Social workers just couldn’t be it when it came to date • I wouldn’t be able to handle being a therapist because it’s hard and I should stay in a secure job.” • My career won’t allow me to travel the way I would like.
My therapist knows me now and creates a safe space for me to feel whatever emotion I need to during my therapy sessions.
Becoming toxic myself, experiencing anxiety and living beyond my means to fit in.
I’m able to unpack my past so my present decisions can elevate my future.
Despite those challenges, discouraging words, lack of support in relationships, surrounding dysfunction; I’m a DOPE BLACK SOCIAL WORKER BECAUSE...
This led me down a road of trying to compensate for initial salaries with throwing parties and entertainment. Getting caught up in the promotion life. Running into client(s) at the parties. Working for a local government agency and battling the bureaucracy. Mentor warning me that my wanting to be more hands on, radical and community/client connected is frowned upon. Experiencing sabotage from people who look like me and supposedly have the same purpose.
I took the leap! I’m in the community, serving all those who allow me to. I’m making great money while making a difference. I’m connected, traveling, serving, managing anxiety, healthy, free from Popeyes, and a great dad. I’m still present thanks to God and others who believe in me while in the field I’m in! The characteristics that I believe make me a great social worker are my genuine spirit, caring attitude, commitment to my work, and helping others. I continue my efforts in being a better person and I serve as a clinician and advocate on the behalf of others. What makes me a “Dope Black Social Worker”? • I grew up in low income housing around dysfunction. • I was introduced to the field by a white man who is still my mentor today. • I have experienced traumatic events. • I have experienced racism in my graduate program for Social Work by the Dean. • I am the first black person to be accepted into my MSW program. • I am the first black male to graduate from the program. As a therapist, I absorb a lot. I love what I do. I also need to be intentional with my own #selfcare. A couple of my fellow male clinicians check in, check on, and simply check me by saying “you are doing a lot of big things but don’t burn yourself and make sure you’re taking care of yourself! Salute to them for accountability and how we keep each other grounded!
Contact Info: www.BasheaWilliams.com www.HeartsInMindCounseling.com
40 | rallyupmagazine.com | Winter 2020
I MARRIED A MONSTER By TJ Woodard
I married a monster. At least that’s what I thought. I thought I married a monster. It’s funny how we can get so caught up on the actions of others that we don’t
realize our own. We can see the flaws and faults of those around us because it takes the focus off of ourselves. I thought I married a monster, when in all actuality he was dealing with some of the same things that I had been dealing with. I couldn’t deal with my own because I was so caught up on his. You see, we had very similar issues just in very different ways. This is a common mistake made by women and men, thinking that women are the only ones who can be emotional, sensitive or have real feelings. Men can be vulnerable. Men can have insecurities. They have been abused. They can have abandonment issues. They can fear rejection. They can have addictions and be depressed, or even have suicidal thoughts. We are more alike than we know.
I thought I married a monster but really I married a real man with real needs just like me.
He needed love, support, encouragement, and help just like many of us. I’m not saying that I didn’t provide those things the best I knew how given that I was fighting my own demons; but I do have a better understanding of it now. I see where I could have been a little more patient and understanding of his needs. As I am learning more about mental health, I’m learning more about my own and those around me, so I can better recognize as opposed to judge or dismiss. If you are one who feel like you married a monster, you may want to look deeper into the needs of that man. See if you can provide support in getting him the help he might need.
Tamika “TJ” Woodard is the co-founder of Propel into Purpose where “Love and Mental Health Meet.” She has partnered with Nikita “Niki” Powell-Cottman to address mental health from a relational standpoint. The goal is to provide education, coaching, and support for healthier and longer lasting relationships. Tamika “TJ” Woodard is available for individual or group coaching. For more information check out www.tamikawoodard.com.
Winter 2020| rallyupmagazine.com | 41
NEVER TOO LATE: An Apology to My Ex for Ignoring His Mental Health By: Tyi Flood recently apologized to my ex the other day for not taking his mental health seriously. He was grieving his mother ten years after her death, and I felt that he made her death an excuse for some of his behavior. Although I supported him through his many breakdowns, and encouraged him daily, I still didn’t trust that his emotions were real. During this time, I was in denial about my own mental health. I felt that displaying mental illness was a weakness, and that no one could ever understand or care about how I was struggling mentally. I worked extremely hard to hide my depression, and I guess I figured that as a man, he should work even harder. As I’ve grown into my own self-awareness and the courage to finally stand up for the rights of those living with mental health conditions, I felt ashamed and angry for being so cruel to this man that I once loved.
PHOTO BY LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS
How could I be so insensitive? How could I not be strong enough to handle his depressive behavior and mentality? How could I have been so judgmental? Funny enough, those who have once looked down on others with mental illness, are living with some form of mental illness or condition today. It’s interesting to hear the stories from women who have dealt with men that displayed signs of depression, personality disorders, or anxiety—yet—they didn’t understand, or they simply judged that man by calling him “weak” or “crazy.” Many men today are finding the strength to speak up about their mental health conditions. They are encouraging each other, and many families are seeking therapy together. Fact is—no one can face a mental illness on their own, and no one is immune to the conditions that may arise. You need support, therapy, and faith. Support from family and friends, cognitive therapy with a licensed (trusted) therapist, and faith to believe that you will get through the hard times. If you know someone who is dealing with grief, PTSD, depression, or any form of emotional or mental health conditions, make the time to let them know that it’s okay to not be okay. Let them know that you care for them by seeking resources together, or by simply being a listening ear. You never know what story could be yours. I apologized to my ex for my ignorance and betrayal, and I commend all men who are constantly trying to live up to the expectations of being a “strong man.” Be open, be honest, and most importantly BE YOURSELF. We love you!
Let’s be the ones who Talk About Mental Health so Much that our Next Generation Never Feels the Stigma ♥
We Fight Foundation Inc. 240-34-FIGHT (240-343-4448)
DEVON LEWIS
BUCHANAN, MSW Founder and CEO of Inspire Youths Services, Inc West Palm Beach, Florida
Born in Brooklyn, New York but moved to West Palm Beach with his mother who raised six children as a single parent. From a young age, Devon's ďŹ rst love was football and he was blessed to receive a football scholarship to attend The University of Louisiana-Lafayette. He envisioned becoming a professional football player and when his plans were suddenly derailed after an unfortunate injury in his ďŹ nal game, Devon was still given a 3-day tryout with the Oakland Raiders and soon after; he was cut and sent home to ďŹ gure out what was the next phase of life. He began working in the ďŹ eld of social services with children in foster care. Devon became a father shortly after and was totally caught o guard when his son experienced complications at birth which he was later diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Devon was completely lost and began to experience what he now knows to be symptoms of depression. He began to feel a shift in his life at the age of 25 and it led him on the path he is on today. In his work, Devon came across many young people who were battling mental health issues, many minorities especially males were resistant to being vulnerable and speaking to someone for professional help. He lost his uncle Erwin who was his biggest supporter when he was 17 years old, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia and had his ďŹ rst experience with psychosis at 15 years old, he passed at 31 years old from medication complications. More than half of all mental health diagnoses are present by the age of 14 years old. Devon was never able to escape the stigma of having a mental illness, especially from his own family. He wanted to change how young people looked at mental health and provide them the tools necessary to fully reach their potential mentally, physically, and emotionally. Devon does the work that he does to honor his uncle and his legacy and that’s when Inspire Youths was created to provide education, advocacy, and services for youth addressing mental and behavioral health through workshops, therapeutic services, and mentorship. Inspire Youths Services, Inc is built on the foundation of education surrounding mental health, particularly to those who are underserved. They specialize in giving youth a voice through their various platforms, bullying workshops, youth panel discussions, as well as introducing mental health through workshops. They have spoken to well over 1,000 youths about mental health in a year and a half. What Devon is most proud of is the youth they serve have a voice through their programs, they create videos and they enjoy sharing their stories, feelings, and perspectives of the world around them.
DEVON PERSONALLY SHARED: “I am thankful for the great amount of support, most individuals who were complete strangers to me who supported my mission rather than just myself. Individuals like Jeannette Marshall who is the program director of Healthier Neighbors has been someone who has helped push my organization through her community work. Carolyn Taylor, principal of Florida Futures Academy who has given me free rein to implement and design any measures to better assist her
Challenges to Change
students. Jeremey Moorse, the CEO of Mental Health America of Palm Beach County was the ďŹ rst person to make a monetary donation to my organization. My Toastmasters Club has been tremendous and is actually where I would present many of the beginning workshops to receive feedback. Chris Seville, Tessie Watts, and Sheena Lewis have been amazing board members helping to create a better structure for the organization. My family has been encouraging continuously pushing me to strive to continue bringing positive change.â€?
Contact Info: : www.inspireyouths.com | : @inspireyouths : info@inspireyouths.com
Making a Dierence
Jean Semelfort Jr. MA, LPC
Founder/Mental Health Therapist C.A.C.T.U.S. Center in Montclair, NJ
“Love takes off masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within.� James Baldwin
WHAT DOES MENTAL HEALTH MEANS TO ME? Mental health is a cog within the machine that seems small but plays a major part in our overall functioning and quality of life. Its importance, often times, have been either downplayed or distorted. Growing up as a Haitian Black man from Newark, NJ strength is assessed by your ability to suppress and present unbothered. Unfortunately, many of us have bore witness to how such practices contribute to a slew of issues, both medical and mental. We’ve seen strong connections to substance addictions and problematic interpersonal skills that negatively impact various types of relationships. When asked what does mental health mean to me, it means a continuous investment in leading a healthy life that is rooted in the individual’s beautiful and ugly truths. It’s intentionally working towards a healthier life for self and those you hold meaningful connections with by addressing past and present traumas, investing in self-care, and learning to fulďŹ ll the desire for love.
MY WHY? Growing up I was often referred to as “sensitive.â€? Within my adult years the label sensitive transitioned to empathetic, well for some. Given the trauma my family endured and the helplessness I experienced as a child not being able to physically protect those I love, I became an emotional support person. It was in that, I found my purpose. This purpose carried me all the way to becoming a mental health therapist; ďŹ nding power and meaning in helping folks identify their resilience in a way that does not distort real experiences but instead allows them to ďŹ nd strength in their truths.
Contact Info: : cactuscenternj@gmail.com : www.cactuscenternj.com : Instagram @jeansemelfort : 347-460-2476
Challenges to Change
Making a Dierence
Christopher Scott MSW, CSWA
Founder of Hip Hop Social Worker, LLC
Portland, Oregon
“Keep it Simple�
career I would like to shift from micro work to macro work to see if I can inuence and advocate for changes that would be great for helping with community trauma. That’s my future plan but as for right now I want to motivate others by encouraging them to know they have what it takes to succeed, set goals, continue to be an advocate for mental health, and help bring positive changes to the ďŹ eld of social work. I started my podcast to create a platform to share my ideas and connect with other social workers to explore dierent areas in the ďŹ eld. I also like to share dierent philosophies with listeners and I hope to spread awareness for students, people seeking mental health support, social workers looking for dierent career options, and an in depth look of how everyday life aects our hen I was younger I suered from a couple of mental health diagnosis, depres- mental health. Trauma looks sion and anxiety being the ones that I can self diagnose when I look back at dierent for everyone and part of those times. I wished that someone was available to help me through those my mission is to spread that times from a mental health perspective. I have had mentors and case managers message so more people can in community programing that helped but no one to connect the dots to mental connect with the right resources health. I want to be that person in someone’s life to guide them through these tough times to help heal and/or understand and help build them up. I believe that mental health is a community eort so eventually in my how the complexities of how trauma shows up in our lives. Contact Info: This is hard work and it can be overwhelming, I stay grounded : @hhsocialwork and motivated by celebrating the : @hiphopsocialworker small victories.
W
: hiphopsocialworker@gmail.com : www.hiphopsocialworker.com
Challenges to Change
Photo by Sara Cervera on Unsplash
STRESS FREE GREEN SMOOTHIE RECIPE INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups of fresh spinach • ½ medium avocado (pitted and peeled) • ½ fresh or frozen banana • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or vegan yogurt • ¾ cup almond milk • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg • ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric Place all ingredients into blender and blend on high.
TIP: For more sweetness add honey or pure maple syrup. Add nutmeg to taste. FUN FACTS: Tumeric has been known to help with depression and mental fatigue. Nutmeg has been known to be effective for treating depression, anxiety, and ease stress. Cinnamon has been known to aid in brain health. Avacados have been shown to be beneficial for brain health. ~Recipe provided by Andrae Hayden
48 | rallyupmagazine.com | Winter 2020
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If you need help now or feeling suicidal call 911. 1800-SUICIDE (1800-784-2433) 1800-273- TALK (1800-273-8255)
Spanish Suicide Hotline Phone:(800)784-2432 or (888)628-9454 Hours of Operation:24/7 The Trevor Suicide HelpLine Phone:(866)488-7386 www.thetrevorproject.org Hours of Operation:24/7
CRISIS TEXT LINE Text "FIGHT" to 741741 NAMI Helpline M-F, 10 am - 6pm ET 1800-950-NAMI
Veterans Crisis Hotline Phone:(877)838-2838 www.veteranscall.us/ Hours of Operation:24/7
We Fight Foundation, Inc. 240-34-FIGHT (240-343-4448) www.wefightfoundation.org available crisis chat line.
Mental Health America http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/ American Psychiatric Association http://www.psych.org/
TEEN LINE 1800-852-8336 www.teenlineoonline.org Military Veterans Suicide Hotline: 1800-273-TALK (1800-273-8255 PRESS 1) LGBTQ+ Youth Suicide Hotline: 1866-4-U-TREVOR
American Psychological Association http://www.apa.org Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) http://www.adaa.org/
NAMI National http://www.nami.org/ Suicide Hotline in Spanish: 1800-273- TALK (1800-273-8255 PRESS 2)
National Institute of Mental Health http://www.nimh.nih.gov/ Obsessive Compulsive Foundation http://www.ocfoundation.org/ Mental Health.gov https://www.mentalhealth.gov/
Family Crisis Center, Inc. Phone:(301)731-1203(Hotline) www.familycrisisresourcecenter.org/ Family Crisis Center for Domestic Violence Phone (410)828-6390(410)285-7496(Emergency Safe Shelter) Korean Suicide Hotline Phone:(855) 775-6732 www.koreansuicidehotline.com/ National Hopeline Network Phone:(800)442-4673 www.hopeline.com National Sexual Assault Hotline,RAINN Phone:(800)656-4673 www.rainn.org/get-help/national-sexual-assault-hotline www.therapyforblackgirls.com Residential Crisis Services, Mosiac Community Service Phone:(410)938-5030 www.mosiacinc.org/programsservices/residential-crisis-program Hours of Operation:24/7
Apps The Safe Place notOK App
VANITY DAWSON Trauma Victim Advocate, D_SAAP Level II Take My Hand, LLC, Leonardtown, MD info@vanitydawson.com
AMANDA FLUDD LCSW-R, CCTP, CDBT
Psychotherapist, Valley Stream, NY www.amandafludd.com
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RallyUp Mental Health Magazine is a product of We Fight Foundation Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization
whose mission is to provide support and services to those who struggle with mental illnesses as well as educate and support the people who care for them and to bridge the gap between them & their love ones/caregivers. caregivers. Our hope is someone reads our magazine and decide NOT to Give Up. If you choose to donate or sponsor our magazine, you can do so by visiting
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ENOUGH. 2 CORINTHIANS 12:9
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