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The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health: Navigate an Unequal System, Learn Tools for Emotional Wellness, and Get the Help you Deserve
An unapologetic exploration of the Black mental health crisis—and a comprehensive road map to getting the care you deserve in an unequal system.
We can’t deny it any longer: there is a Black mental health crisis in our world today. Black people die at disproportionately high rates due to chronic illness, suffer from poverty, under-education, and the effects of racism. This book is an exploration of Black mental health in today’s world, the forces that have undermined mental health progress for African Americans, and what needs to happen for African Americans to heal psychological distress, find community, and undo years of stigma and marginalization in order to access effective mental health care.
In The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health, psychologist and African American mental health expert Rheeda Walker offers important information on the mental health crisis in the Black community, how to combat stigma, spot potential mental illness, how to practice emotional wellness, and how to get the best care possible in system steeped in racial bias.
This breakthrough book will help you:
Recognize mental and emotional health problems
Understand the myriad ways in which these problems impact overall health and quality of life and relationships
Develop psychological tools to neutralize ongoing stressors and live more fully
Navigate a mental health care system that is unequal
It’s past time to take Black mental health seriously. Whether you suffer yourself, have a loved one who needs help, or are a mental health professional working with the Black community, this book is an essential and much-needed resource.
We can’t deny it any longer: there is a Black mental health crisis in our world today. Black people die at disproportionately high rates due to chronic illness, suffer from poverty, under-education, and the effects of racism. This book is an exploration of Black mental health in today’s world, the forces that have undermined mental health progress for African Americans, and what needs to happen for African Americans to heal psychological distress, find community, and undo years of stigma and marginalization in order to access effective mental health care.
In The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health, psychologist and African American mental health expert Rheeda Walker offers important information on the mental health crisis in the Black community, how to combat stigma, spot potential mental illness, how to practice emotional wellness, and how to get the best care possible in system steeped in racial bias.
This breakthrough book will help you:
Recognize mental and emotional health problems
Understand the myriad ways in which these problems impact overall health and quality of life and relationships
Develop psychological tools to neutralize ongoing stressors and live more fully
Navigate a mental health care system that is unequal
It’s past time to take Black mental health seriously. Whether you suffer yourself, have a loved one who needs help, or are a mental health professional working with the Black community, this book is an essential and much-needed resource.
232 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
July 14, 2020
Cant recommended any book that looks to christianity as a source of strength and liberation. That is the religion of the oppressors and colonisers. The slave masters used to whip slaves quoting verses from the bible but we'll just leave it at that.
Some good takes and the message is important. Mental health for melanated people has additional layers and complications. I recommend looking to spirituality instead of any religion. Regain your true identity.
The book is obviously geared more towards the mature african woman. As a young British African male, I felt like I wasn't included as much in the conversation.
Some good takes and the message is important. Mental health for melanated people has additional layers and complications. I recommend looking to spirituality instead of any religion. Regain your true identity.
The book is obviously geared more towards the mature african woman. As a young British African male, I felt like I wasn't included as much in the conversation.
May 3, 2021
The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health , written by psychologist Dr.Rheeda Walker, is a resource that centres the Black experience to offer reflections, inspiration and practical tools for mental wellbeing.
Ironically, though the book was meant to offer a resource for Black folk struggling with mental health, I did not feel represented in this text. The audience for this book is very narrow, aimed specifically at Black Christian women in their forties living in the United States and struggling with anxiety and depression. Though there were a number of sections that I found transferrable to my own experience, I can't help but wonder why the author didn't make the few small adjustments needed to make the text more inclusive of different Black experiences. Further, The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health relies heavily on faith and religion and reads more like a mental health resource I would get from my pastor than one I would I get from my therapist.
Ironically, though the book was meant to offer a resource for Black folk struggling with mental health, I did not feel represented in this text. The audience for this book is very narrow, aimed specifically at Black Christian women in their forties living in the United States and struggling with anxiety and depression. Though there were a number of sections that I found transferrable to my own experience, I can't help but wonder why the author didn't make the few small adjustments needed to make the text more inclusive of different Black experiences. Further, The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health relies heavily on faith and religion and reads more like a mental health resource I would get from my pastor than one I would I get from my therapist.
May 21, 2021
"The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health" is an important work that highlights the mental health issues that people of African descent living in the US face and the impact it has on their lives. It also provides "tools" that can be used to at least start addressing the problem.
In the UK, Black people are more likely to be diagnosed with psychosis, find themselves in inpatient mental health services, or be detained under the Mental Health Act than White people. This makes the content of this book relevant, to those of us living outside the US.
Recommended reading.
In the UK, Black people are more likely to be diagnosed with psychosis, find themselves in inpatient mental health services, or be detained under the Mental Health Act than White people. This makes the content of this book relevant, to those of us living outside the US.
Recommended reading.
May 20, 2020
To be clear right from the get-go, as a white chick, I’m not the intended audience of The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health by Rheeda Walker. It’s written by a Black woman directed at Black people. However, it also offers interesting cultural insights that are relevant to all audiences.
The author explains that she did a Ph.D. in psychology because she wanted to challenge the privileged assumption that depression in Black people looks the same as in white people.
Throughout the book, she gives scenarios to illustrate the concepts covered. These are all explicitly tied into Black culture and the things that Black people are faced with. The notion of improving psychological fortitude underpins the various topics covered.
Early on, the book addresses the issue of suicide. Walker acknowledges that it’s a common belief among Black pastors that suicide is a white people issue, and Black people are seen as being too resilient for suicide.
Racism and its effects come up often throughout the book. Walker gives suggestions on how how to distinguish between disordered anxiety and the very real worries that Black people face because of racism and situations like the killing of Trayvon Martin.
The author argues that assimilation won’t help, and can lead to the internalization of racist ideas. Her research has shown than Black people who don’t view their own Blackness in a positive light are at a higher risk for suicide.
She suggests that psychological fortitude benefits the most from increasing connectedness with Black culture. She encourages embracing natural hair and African American Vernacular English (you may be more familiar with the term Ebonics) as examples to promote reconnection.
There’s a chapter devoted to faith, and the benefits in terms of both spirituality and connection to culture and community. The author makes it clear that talking to a pastor isn’t mental health care, and while you would pray to the Lord, “sometimes God sends a psychologist.”
The book offers suggestions on how to support your child’s mental health, as well as support your own wellbeing as a parent. There’s a chapter on therapy that covers how to access it, common misconceptions, and what therapy actually looks like. The author also covers some CBT-based coping tools.
While I can’t directly speak to how well this book will connect with target audiences, I found that it was very well written and delivered an important message. I would definitely recommend it.
I received a reviewer copy of this book from Netgalley.
This review first appeared on https://mentalhealthathome.org/2020/0...
The author explains that she did a Ph.D. in psychology because she wanted to challenge the privileged assumption that depression in Black people looks the same as in white people.
Throughout the book, she gives scenarios to illustrate the concepts covered. These are all explicitly tied into Black culture and the things that Black people are faced with. The notion of improving psychological fortitude underpins the various topics covered.
Early on, the book addresses the issue of suicide. Walker acknowledges that it’s a common belief among Black pastors that suicide is a white people issue, and Black people are seen as being too resilient for suicide.
Racism and its effects come up often throughout the book. Walker gives suggestions on how how to distinguish between disordered anxiety and the very real worries that Black people face because of racism and situations like the killing of Trayvon Martin.
The author argues that assimilation won’t help, and can lead to the internalization of racist ideas. Her research has shown than Black people who don’t view their own Blackness in a positive light are at a higher risk for suicide.
She suggests that psychological fortitude benefits the most from increasing connectedness with Black culture. She encourages embracing natural hair and African American Vernacular English (you may be more familiar with the term Ebonics) as examples to promote reconnection.
There’s a chapter devoted to faith, and the benefits in terms of both spirituality and connection to culture and community. The author makes it clear that talking to a pastor isn’t mental health care, and while you would pray to the Lord, “sometimes God sends a psychologist.”
The book offers suggestions on how to support your child’s mental health, as well as support your own wellbeing as a parent. There’s a chapter on therapy that covers how to access it, common misconceptions, and what therapy actually looks like. The author also covers some CBT-based coping tools.
While I can’t directly speak to how well this book will connect with target audiences, I found that it was very well written and delivered an important message. I would definitely recommend it.
I received a reviewer copy of this book from Netgalley.
This review first appeared on https://mentalhealthathome.org/2020/0...
April 25, 2021
All I can say about this book is that it's a must read. If you are looking for ways to improve your mental health then this is a must read.
June 19, 2021
Review coming soon!
August 26, 2020
As advertised, this book is a valuable guide for learning and emotional wellness. I had issues with a few of the sections as well as the way the book is laid out but I will talk about all of those below.
A large portion of the book, especially the first half, is spent identifying and discussing suicide, depression and the heavy toll of navigating in a racist society. It's a heavy read, I had to take it in chunks and then sometimes, take a break. And while all this information is important, this is where I wish the book for laid out a little differently.
The book states that many of us have low psychological fortitude (PF), basically meaning, a solid, healthy foundation to rely on and call upon while dealing with everything life throws at us. Especially for black people, who may believe they need to push through, do what needs to be done and just make it into the next day without giving enough thought and care for our physical and mental health and wellness. With this being the case, it would have been great to have the book broken up into sections of (for example) reading about depression and anxiety and then being offered suggestions and tools to manage those feelings. It was difficult reading chapter after chapter of detailed injustices, stories of suicide and poor health and neglect without the mention of helpful tools or ways to better care for yourself within those same chapters.
This kind of helpful information does appear in the book but not until the second section and really, not until Chapter 11.
There are earlier chapters within the second half of the book that mean to be helpful but I had a real problem with several assumptions that were made. The author is very religious, specifically Baptist, and is often quoting the bible and referring to speaking with your preacher for help and guidance. But what if you aren't Baptists or even religious? My spirituality is important and a big part of who I am but I don't belong to a church and I know I'm not alone. The author also assumes the reader comes from a big family with grandmothers and auties to communicate with. I don't have this either. Yet my mental toughness, physical and mental health and wellbeing are still incredibly important to me.
I do appreciate the difficult topics the author addresses and the tools provided in Chapter 11 are excellent. This book also helped me address what I recognize now as microaggressions that I didn't have the language and understanding of. I only knew I felt angry, sad and/or hurt. A lot is said about getting back to our roots, being proud of and learning about our African heritage and even, spending more time in black spaces, all of which I wholeheartedly agree with.
I wish the book was a little more balanced out with discussing issues and offering real help you can apply in your daily life but overall, I do feel this is an important and needed read. Now and for the future.
A large portion of the book, especially the first half, is spent identifying and discussing suicide, depression and the heavy toll of navigating in a racist society. It's a heavy read, I had to take it in chunks and then sometimes, take a break. And while all this information is important, this is where I wish the book for laid out a little differently.
The book states that many of us have low psychological fortitude (PF), basically meaning, a solid, healthy foundation to rely on and call upon while dealing with everything life throws at us. Especially for black people, who may believe they need to push through, do what needs to be done and just make it into the next day without giving enough thought and care for our physical and mental health and wellness. With this being the case, it would have been great to have the book broken up into sections of (for example) reading about depression and anxiety and then being offered suggestions and tools to manage those feelings. It was difficult reading chapter after chapter of detailed injustices, stories of suicide and poor health and neglect without the mention of helpful tools or ways to better care for yourself within those same chapters.
This kind of helpful information does appear in the book but not until the second section and really, not until Chapter 11.
There are earlier chapters within the second half of the book that mean to be helpful but I had a real problem with several assumptions that were made. The author is very religious, specifically Baptist, and is often quoting the bible and referring to speaking with your preacher for help and guidance. But what if you aren't Baptists or even religious? My spirituality is important and a big part of who I am but I don't belong to a church and I know I'm not alone. The author also assumes the reader comes from a big family with grandmothers and auties to communicate with. I don't have this either. Yet my mental toughness, physical and mental health and wellbeing are still incredibly important to me.
I do appreciate the difficult topics the author addresses and the tools provided in Chapter 11 are excellent. This book also helped me address what I recognize now as microaggressions that I didn't have the language and understanding of. I only knew I felt angry, sad and/or hurt. A lot is said about getting back to our roots, being proud of and learning about our African heritage and even, spending more time in black spaces, all of which I wholeheartedly agree with.
I wish the book was a little more balanced out with discussing issues and offering real help you can apply in your daily life but overall, I do feel this is an important and needed read. Now and for the future.
February 3, 2021
After avoiding becoming more intentional about my mental health, this book was the perfect read to start the year. Mental health is an intimidating and sensitive topic as a black man. This book helped me unpack a lot of the generational “baggage” that goes undiscussed within our community. I was able to see how at times we contribute towards our own demise by delaying the professional help that we need. We naturally have become a people known to persist, but in doing so we have neglected what allows us to function at maximum capacity. Lastly, I was enamored by the variety of actionable items and terminology distributed which will help people take their first step of their mental health journey. Great read!
February 18, 2022
It took me forever to complete the book funny enough it was because I was going through so much and could not dedicate my normal reading time.
Nothing truly stuck out to me in all honesty. To say it was a guide it was truly very basic. To say that it was written from a health professional it was truly basic. I am not sure if I feel this way because I am in healthcare and I am personally going through turmoil. The book provided to ME basic knowledge; the things that are a given we know that there is a lack of black psychotherapists , we know we may have to see a therapist of another race. We know that our spiritual belief is NOT enough to cope with everyday stress. We understand the system is unequal buuuuut now what to do? I blame myself because I think I went into reading thinking that it would be a guide laid out for me to improve my mental health but I am already doing the things in the book sooo now what.
I gave it 3 stars because there maybe an individual that perhaps don't know or understand what to do when there psychological fortitude is low.
Nothing truly stuck out to me in all honesty. To say it was a guide it was truly very basic. To say that it was written from a health professional it was truly basic. I am not sure if I feel this way because I am in healthcare and I am personally going through turmoil. The book provided to ME basic knowledge; the things that are a given we know that there is a lack of black psychotherapists , we know we may have to see a therapist of another race. We know that our spiritual belief is NOT enough to cope with everyday stress. We understand the system is unequal buuuuut now what to do? I blame myself because I think I went into reading thinking that it would be a guide laid out for me to improve my mental health but I am already doing the things in the book sooo now what.
I gave it 3 stars because there maybe an individual that perhaps don't know or understand what to do when there psychological fortitude is low.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2021
This book was a little disappointing. The book starts off strong discussing suicidal issues throughout the black community. But the book takes a turn and begins to speak about religion specifically Christianity as a means of coping with mental issues. Next the book goes on to point out specific conditions and ways to combat those issues. Also the book is written from a female perspective and uses mostly feminine pronouns. The book never really addresses the true topics like how to find a mental health therapist or clear reasons why the black community is hesitant to seek help.
May 19, 2022
Am I the intended audience for this book? Nope.
But when a friend said this book is a must read for ALL people, I grabbed a copy from the library. Because I love reading books that I’m not the intended audience for, especially when they are about mental health.
Like most mental health books, this one addressed lots of great specifics on how to get help, self-help, and even meds. But what this book did differently was it didn’t come from a place of whiteness being the norm (like many mental health books). Instead it discussed culture, church, racism and history.
I loved that this book didn’t sugarcoat anything. Walker came right out talking about suicide in the first chapter and citing stats about how the suicide rate is higher among Black children than white children. She discussed the stigma of discussing mental health in the Black community and she had two chapters focused on racism.
While I think there is a wealth of information here, I think for me those two chapters on racism were the ones I got the most from. And I totally agree with my friend, this is a must read for all. And it would make a great addition to your Mental Health Awareness Month TBR.
But when a friend said this book is a must read for ALL people, I grabbed a copy from the library. Because I love reading books that I’m not the intended audience for, especially when they are about mental health.
Like most mental health books, this one addressed lots of great specifics on how to get help, self-help, and even meds. But what this book did differently was it didn’t come from a place of whiteness being the norm (like many mental health books). Instead it discussed culture, church, racism and history.
I loved that this book didn’t sugarcoat anything. Walker came right out talking about suicide in the first chapter and citing stats about how the suicide rate is higher among Black children than white children. She discussed the stigma of discussing mental health in the Black community and she had two chapters focused on racism.
While I think there is a wealth of information here, I think for me those two chapters on racism were the ones I got the most from. And I totally agree with my friend, this is a must read for all. And it would make a great addition to your Mental Health Awareness Month TBR.
December 27, 2021
This was a decent read to me. It dealt with suicide a lot which was heavy. I lost a best friend to what they said was suicide so that may be heavy for another reader as well. She makes an interesting point about ptsd from somebody dying from suicide. That idea stuck with me. It seems her intent was to write about black people which she did in a lot of areas, but a lot of it seems like she was mostly focusing on black women (referring to the reader as a mom or sister) and that’s cool she’s a black woman and that’s where she’s an expert so I wasn’t able to relate to those areas, but still good info. She basically focuses on how we have dismissed mental health in the black community and tries to help us see how we have come to that and what we go through as people that affects it and how to overcome it. These book only work if you are receptive and at least try the practices. There’s a review that says they cannot recommend any books that looks to Christianity as a source of strength and liberation which she does talk about her Christianity and others spirituality. The reason it should not be looked at in that way is the same reasonings she gives in her book. Yes people have used the Bible to do horrible things over the years, but a sound mind knows that people that tarnish those words have nothing to do with the power of those words. I believe people can believe what they want, but don’t tarnish the Christian faith or Bible for what people have done and don’t put down a book that may impact somebody for that reason alone. We as a people have taken all of the bad that has been done and turned it around for good (the n word, Christianity, etc.) and that is the basic message of this book is to take all of the things that have affected our mental health as a culture and turn them into good.
January 21, 2021
What a great read to start 2021 with! This book is written in a friendly style and is so clearly Black, which is part of what makes it great. Walker uses her training in clinical psychology and her experiences as Black woman to highlight the unique ways in which mental health issues can arise in Black people and in how our community responds. The book centers around identifying, understanding, and working to strengthen your psychological fortitude.
That said, this isn't a "self-help" book. Walker offers some tips and tools but also strongly encourages people to seek out assistance from mental health professionals, from spiritual leaders, from their friends and community, etc. It's a polite nudge to seek out the resources you need to be healthy and well, not just muddling through or getting by.
That said, this isn't a "self-help" book. Walker offers some tips and tools but also strongly encourages people to seek out assistance from mental health professionals, from spiritual leaders, from their friends and community, etc. It's a polite nudge to seek out the resources you need to be healthy and well, not just muddling through or getting by.
February 18, 2024
Normally I would rate this book one star, but it does surprisingly have value. Actually, it has a magnificent value I discovered at chapter 5, which is focused on berating white people for being racist, whether consciously and purposeful or by mistake and unbeknownst to them.
In fact, the entire book has that air to it. It is a long, descriptive, and varied list of the ways white people, white society, and white fields of study are oppresive and deadly to blacks. It certainly was written in a condescending and spiteful tone as “Black people” is always capitalized but “white people” is insignificant. To be fair, if I had to write a book about white mental health I would be just as angry and fed up with black people.
This value in this book comes from the fact that it is an excellent argument for the case of Peaceful Separation. This means to me that white people and minorities are unable to coexist. Dr. Walker makes it very clear that no amount of education, laws, and cultural effort can ever overcome racism, and I agree with her. This book makes it evident that black and White people are unable to share a society, which is why this book has convinced me Peaceful Separation is not only beneficial to the mental and physical health of both White and black peoples, but it is necessary for the problems of racism to ever actually be resolved. Black people would have less stress, health problems, unjust murders, and would overall be happier if they could be in their own society without the white menace. Likewise, white people would be the same amongst their own kind.
In chapter 6, a short series of paragraphs talks about how the representation in 2018’s Black Panther brought feelings of euphoria, cultural pride, accomplishment, and similar feelings to the black community. This section made me laugh because usually Whites feel the same way about, say, movies like Gladiator, The Iron Claw, or any western movie. Usually, movies celebrated by whites are at least historically based or more grounded than the silly, cartoonish Black Panther. The explanation given by Dr. Walker for its significance is a list of fictional reasons, like how the society of Wakanda is more advanced than “wypipo” (said in the book) or how it is hidden away from the racist colonizers. On the other hand, as a White I feel accomplished and proud with thoughts of “wow, we really did this, that’s amazing.” But black people have to lean on utter make-belief to vindicate their lack of historical significance. Lol.
To comment on the religious aspect of this book, it comes off as wavering. Despite all the mentions of church and how it can be helpful to mental health, it is merely a suggestion. The importance of Jesus Christ is not stressed, and a relationship with God is downplayed to something that can only help a little bit but is not the solution to your problems. It makes it seem like faith is a personal preference and not objectively important, which is a stance I was not aware any Christians took. Also, Dr. Walker approves of those who practice religions (Islam, Judaism, Buddhism etc.) and also recommends incorporating African ancestor worship, which is very sad since none of these people will be saved following these beliefs! Maybe black people view Christianity in this loose unserious way, I do not know whether this is the case or not. I personally disapprove of this aspect of the book, as the only way to be saved (which is more important than all of our time on Earth) is to believe in Jesus Christ.
I now truly and deeply believe a Peaceful Separation which is fair, equal, just, and out of respect and decency with no spite is the ultimately good solution to our society’s problems. According to this book, both parties would be better off apart.
In fact, the entire book has that air to it. It is a long, descriptive, and varied list of the ways white people, white society, and white fields of study are oppresive and deadly to blacks. It certainly was written in a condescending and spiteful tone as “Black people” is always capitalized but “white people” is insignificant. To be fair, if I had to write a book about white mental health I would be just as angry and fed up with black people.
This value in this book comes from the fact that it is an excellent argument for the case of Peaceful Separation. This means to me that white people and minorities are unable to coexist. Dr. Walker makes it very clear that no amount of education, laws, and cultural effort can ever overcome racism, and I agree with her. This book makes it evident that black and White people are unable to share a society, which is why this book has convinced me Peaceful Separation is not only beneficial to the mental and physical health of both White and black peoples, but it is necessary for the problems of racism to ever actually be resolved. Black people would have less stress, health problems, unjust murders, and would overall be happier if they could be in their own society without the white menace. Likewise, white people would be the same amongst their own kind.
In chapter 6, a short series of paragraphs talks about how the representation in 2018’s Black Panther brought feelings of euphoria, cultural pride, accomplishment, and similar feelings to the black community. This section made me laugh because usually Whites feel the same way about, say, movies like Gladiator, The Iron Claw, or any western movie. Usually, movies celebrated by whites are at least historically based or more grounded than the silly, cartoonish Black Panther. The explanation given by Dr. Walker for its significance is a list of fictional reasons, like how the society of Wakanda is more advanced than “wypipo” (said in the book) or how it is hidden away from the racist colonizers. On the other hand, as a White I feel accomplished and proud with thoughts of “wow, we really did this, that’s amazing.” But black people have to lean on utter make-belief to vindicate their lack of historical significance. Lol.
To comment on the religious aspect of this book, it comes off as wavering. Despite all the mentions of church and how it can be helpful to mental health, it is merely a suggestion. The importance of Jesus Christ is not stressed, and a relationship with God is downplayed to something that can only help a little bit but is not the solution to your problems. It makes it seem like faith is a personal preference and not objectively important, which is a stance I was not aware any Christians took. Also, Dr. Walker approves of those who practice religions (Islam, Judaism, Buddhism etc.) and also recommends incorporating African ancestor worship, which is very sad since none of these people will be saved following these beliefs! Maybe black people view Christianity in this loose unserious way, I do not know whether this is the case or not. I personally disapprove of this aspect of the book, as the only way to be saved (which is more important than all of our time on Earth) is to believe in Jesus Christ.
I now truly and deeply believe a Peaceful Separation which is fair, equal, just, and out of respect and decency with no spite is the ultimately good solution to our society’s problems. According to this book, both parties would be better off apart.
January 22, 2023
It was a decent read.
It was kind of validating because a lot of the things Dr. Walker mentions in the book, I’m already working on.
I think the most novel idea she presents in this book is the idea of solidarity, of gaining PF (psychological fortitude) in black identity and the black community. Initially, it came off as “black people have endured and will continue to do so” and “look to your ancestors” kind of deal but she expands on this concept by recognizing that black pride is affirming and that a sense of community goes a long way.
A couple of things that were a bit off-putting were the references to religion and spirituality. I understand that these things tend to be significant to a lot of people who identify as black but not all of us are there so to include a whole chapter was a little meh to me. She even recognized that we’re not all spiritual or religious and asserted that people who weren’t are less likely to connect with their blackness (?) and wrote the following:
“Spirituality and religiosity are part of what it means to be Black. It is not by chance that 78 percent of African Americans are Protestant compared to only half of all adults in the United States. Only 1 percent of African Americans claim to be atheist or agnostic.34 I suspect that this 1 percent are also more likely than other Black folks to see themselves as “just American” and not as people whose identity and culture are rooted in an African heritage. Those individuals do not connect with what it means to be Black”
As a black agnostic, that felt kind of icky to read but I digress. The other issue I took with this was how heavily geared it was to black women. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that but I think it should be labeled as such. Seriously, as a black woman, I related to many of the situations she discussed in the book but I can’t help but wonder how many people might feel excluded by the references.
All that said, I thought it was a great book. Dr. Walker does a great job combining both the personal and practical in encouraging and explaining ways to seek help and tend to your mental health.
I definitely recommend it.
It was kind of validating because a lot of the things Dr. Walker mentions in the book, I’m already working on.
I think the most novel idea she presents in this book is the idea of solidarity, of gaining PF (psychological fortitude) in black identity and the black community. Initially, it came off as “black people have endured and will continue to do so” and “look to your ancestors” kind of deal but she expands on this concept by recognizing that black pride is affirming and that a sense of community goes a long way.
A couple of things that were a bit off-putting were the references to religion and spirituality. I understand that these things tend to be significant to a lot of people who identify as black but not all of us are there so to include a whole chapter was a little meh to me. She even recognized that we’re not all spiritual or religious and asserted that people who weren’t are less likely to connect with their blackness (?) and wrote the following:
“Spirituality and religiosity are part of what it means to be Black. It is not by chance that 78 percent of African Americans are Protestant compared to only half of all adults in the United States. Only 1 percent of African Americans claim to be atheist or agnostic.34 I suspect that this 1 percent are also more likely than other Black folks to see themselves as “just American” and not as people whose identity and culture are rooted in an African heritage. Those individuals do not connect with what it means to be Black”
As a black agnostic, that felt kind of icky to read but I digress. The other issue I took with this was how heavily geared it was to black women. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that but I think it should be labeled as such. Seriously, as a black woman, I related to many of the situations she discussed in the book but I can’t help but wonder how many people might feel excluded by the references.
All that said, I thought it was a great book. Dr. Walker does a great job combining both the personal and practical in encouraging and explaining ways to seek help and tend to your mental health.
I definitely recommend it.
March 26, 2023
this definitely had a specific audience, i would say it’s more suited for beginners to psychology (not a psych grad student, so that’s my bad). and i didn’t like the over emphasis of religion, though i get that’s the author’s prerogative. furthermore, i felt like it wasn’t as cognizant of class issues, though i really appreciated that a more collectivist view was emphasized
more like 3.5
more like 3.5
December 21, 2020
Highly recommend this book. It was very informative and straight to the point.
November 24, 2021
Really enjoyed this book. It gave you some points on how to handle black mental health and also so parenting guide to dealing with the mental health of our children.
January 26, 2022
I needed this read. Seriously
Want to read
April 7, 2023It's a no for me (right now)
August 12, 2021
This is an interesting read. The author touches on very sensitive topics that need to be addressed. I would suggest anyone read this book. There are many tools that can be gained in helping you navigate your Mental Fortitude.
February 23, 2023
Wonderful read, I learned useful information that I feel will boost my competence as a provider. Especially intrigued by her thoughts on culture and suicidality. The chapters on Christianity, to me, are important as a framework for how religion/spirituality can be a protective factor against self-harm. I feel like it may be heavy-handed to some, though I would definitely recommend this book to other providers.
My personal qualm is that bits of the African history are not specific. For example: Ada is a Nigerian (Igbo) name not Ghanaian. And unspecific ‘African’ proverbs make me cringe.
My personal qualm is that bits of the African history are not specific. For example: Ada is a Nigerian (Igbo) name not Ghanaian. And unspecific ‘African’ proverbs make me cringe.
July 15, 2021
3.5 stars
November 21, 2020
Dr. Rheeda Walker, thank you for this amazing and revelatory guide that has helped me tremendously as a young black man. This was everything needed and then some. The tool kit feels limitless now and also holds me accountable to stay in sync for what's to come for research and methods as it pertains to African Americans and others of colors in the Psychology field.
Superbly recommend.
Superbly recommend.
June 27, 2022
Although I did not find relevance in a few minor portions (marriage, children, etc...), overall I found this book affirming and insightful. Dr. Walker's approach is very accessible and she explores mental health through the framing of empowerment. I recommend this book to anyone within the Black diaspora seeking ways to improve wellbeing.
November 4, 2020
@dr.rheedawalker blessed me with this one!! I love it when there's overlap with my experiences. So just two weeks ago, I purchased my first two Audre Lorde books. Then, as I am reading this one, Dr. Walker quotes Audre Lorde: "Caring for myself is not self indulgence, it is self preservation, and that is an act of political warfare." Pure goodness, but also validation of my purchase of 2 weeks ago.
Then Dr. Walker follows that quote up with this goodness: "maintaining your mind will take aggressive strategizing against rivals who would otherwise continue to keep your sanity from you. "Hope," as in "I hope things get better," will never be a strategy. One of the ways that you care for yourself is connecting with your spirit. Stop doing the things that everyone is expecting of you so you can nurture the real you." This is everything! The moment I prioritized me, my power grew exponentially! Find your peace...
Then Dr. Walker follows that quote up with this goodness: "maintaining your mind will take aggressive strategizing against rivals who would otherwise continue to keep your sanity from you. "Hope," as in "I hope things get better," will never be a strategy. One of the ways that you care for yourself is connecting with your spirit. Stop doing the things that everyone is expecting of you so you can nurture the real you." This is everything! The moment I prioritized me, my power grew exponentially! Find your peace...
January 3, 2023
The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health
Navigate an Unequal System, Learn Tools for Emotional Wellness, and Get the Help you Deserve
by Dr. Rheeda Walker
Published May 1st 2020
:-( This quote kept coming to me as I listened to this book, “To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a rage almost all the time. ” ― James Baldwin
Normalizing the need to address and acknowledge emotional and mental health/well being in communities of color are still a major obstacles unfortunately. Living while Black, is a concern within itself and this book does an excellent account of all the ways of how Black Mental Health needs its own entry in the DMS-5. SMH #MUSTREAD
#CallInBlack #PF #microagressions #BPD #Depression #Anxiety #PTSD #HoardingDisorder #BiPolar #SuicidePrevention #PersonalityDisorders #NaturalHairPolitics #ComplexPTSD #NatureNurture #MentalFortitude #VicariousTrauma #MentalEnslavement #PhysicalEnslavement #Therapy #SupportGroups <3
An unapologetic exploration of the Black mental health crisis—and a comprehensive road map to getting the care you deserve in an unequal system.
We can't deny it any longer: there is a Black mental health crisis in our world today. Black people die at disproportionately high rates due to chronic illness, suffer from poverty, under-education, and the effects of racism. This book is an exploration of Black mental health in today's world, the forces that have undermined mental health progress for African Americans, and what needs to happen for African Americans to heal psychological distress, find community, and undo years of stigma and marginalization in order to access effective mental health care.
In The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health, psychologist and African American mental health expert Rheeda Walker offers important information on the mental health crisis in the Black community, how to combat stigma, spot potential mental illness, how to practice emotional wellness, and how to get the best care possible in system steeped in racial bias.
This breakthrough book will help you:
Recognize mental and emotional health problems
Understand the myriad ways in which these problems impact overall health and quality of life and relationships
Develop psychological tools to neutralize ongoing stressors and live more fully
Navigate a mental health care system that is unequal
It's past time to take Black mental health seriously. Whether you suffer yourself, have a loved one who needs help, or are a mental health professional working with the Black community, this book is an essential and much-needed resource.
Navigate an Unequal System, Learn Tools for Emotional Wellness, and Get the Help you Deserve
by Dr. Rheeda Walker
Published May 1st 2020
:-( This quote kept coming to me as I listened to this book, “To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a rage almost all the time. ” ― James Baldwin
Normalizing the need to address and acknowledge emotional and mental health/well being in communities of color are still a major obstacles unfortunately. Living while Black, is a concern within itself and this book does an excellent account of all the ways of how Black Mental Health needs its own entry in the DMS-5. SMH #MUSTREAD
#CallInBlack #PF #microagressions #BPD #Depression #Anxiety #PTSD #HoardingDisorder #BiPolar #SuicidePrevention #PersonalityDisorders #NaturalHairPolitics #ComplexPTSD #NatureNurture #MentalFortitude #VicariousTrauma #MentalEnslavement #PhysicalEnslavement #Therapy #SupportGroups <3
An unapologetic exploration of the Black mental health crisis—and a comprehensive road map to getting the care you deserve in an unequal system.
We can't deny it any longer: there is a Black mental health crisis in our world today. Black people die at disproportionately high rates due to chronic illness, suffer from poverty, under-education, and the effects of racism. This book is an exploration of Black mental health in today's world, the forces that have undermined mental health progress for African Americans, and what needs to happen for African Americans to heal psychological distress, find community, and undo years of stigma and marginalization in order to access effective mental health care.
In The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health, psychologist and African American mental health expert Rheeda Walker offers important information on the mental health crisis in the Black community, how to combat stigma, spot potential mental illness, how to practice emotional wellness, and how to get the best care possible in system steeped in racial bias.
This breakthrough book will help you:
Recognize mental and emotional health problems
Understand the myriad ways in which these problems impact overall health and quality of life and relationships
Develop psychological tools to neutralize ongoing stressors and live more fully
Navigate a mental health care system that is unequal
It's past time to take Black mental health seriously. Whether you suffer yourself, have a loved one who needs help, or are a mental health professional working with the Black community, this book is an essential and much-needed resource.
July 1, 2022
This book was not inclusive whatsoever. It says that it’s for Black mental health but literally leaves out any mention of the LGBTQ+ population, which as a therapist, bares the brunt of lack of mental health care AND stigma from the Black community.
It’s also written from a very Christian point of view , even though at times the author says “use whatever Spirituality you deem fit”, which is almost like an after thought.
I believe a previous commenter said that the audience for this was probably very specific “a cis Black heterosexual woman in their 40s who is either a single mother sandwiched between taking care of her children and elders or married and doing the same”. This is a very narrow niche and even within the scenarios the author provides ,it doesn’t seem relatable.
I’m a single cis Black queer woman who grew up in the Catholic Church vs the Baptist church and have a different concept of Christianity.
I don’t see this as a guide versus the authors personal experience, with some resources thrown in -one of which was not fleshed out but appeared as victim blaming for Black people harmed by the police.
As a therapist, I would not recommend this to my peers or my Black clients because it’s not what it claims to be.
It’s also written from a very Christian point of view , even though at times the author says “use whatever Spirituality you deem fit”, which is almost like an after thought.
I believe a previous commenter said that the audience for this was probably very specific “a cis Black heterosexual woman in their 40s who is either a single mother sandwiched between taking care of her children and elders or married and doing the same”. This is a very narrow niche and even within the scenarios the author provides ,it doesn’t seem relatable.
I’m a single cis Black queer woman who grew up in the Catholic Church vs the Baptist church and have a different concept of Christianity.
I don’t see this as a guide versus the authors personal experience, with some resources thrown in -one of which was not fleshed out but appeared as victim blaming for Black people harmed by the police.
As a therapist, I would not recommend this to my peers or my Black clients because it’s not what it claims to be.
November 12, 2021
This book acts a good resource and starting off point for mental health within the black community and introduces the conversation very well. You can tell, at least initially, that the author put a lot of research into this and provided readers with the references of where the information came from. However, this book was geared more towards black women with families/ women from Baptist - Protestant faith. It starts of as mental health focused then transitions towards using your religious faith in conjecture with licensed mental health workers.
As a social worker/ therapist, it provided insight and tools to better assist black women with families from a religious background. BUT, the description and title is a bit misleading and needs to say who the book is ACTUALLY geared towards.
Now I did take alot out of this such as being INTENTIONAL in embracing my culture and seeking experiences and community that affirms who I am as a black woman in America when so much in this country tries to tell us differently.
As a social worker/ therapist, it provided insight and tools to better assist black women with families from a religious background. BUT, the description and title is a bit misleading and needs to say who the book is ACTUALLY geared towards.
Now I did take alot out of this such as being INTENTIONAL in embracing my culture and seeking experiences and community that affirms who I am as a black woman in America when so much in this country tries to tell us differently.
February 23, 2022
This book was not meant for a white therapist but I ordered it thinking it might be. That being said, I already knew a lot of the content being presented but was interested in the perspective she offered about the black community. The book felt too faith-based to me so I don’t think it’s something I would recommend to a client. However, I do think the topics covered could be helpful to black clients if they are religious and if they haven’t attended therapy before/ if they haven’t had a good fit with therapy.
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