TOUGH CONVERSATIONS: MENTAL HEALTH AND MAKING CHANGES

GLAM Gets Mindful | Melissa Mertsis

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In recent weeks, our world has opened up to new conversations that should have been going on for a while. Our communities have initiated tough conversations on pertinent and meaningful topics. From examining our own biases and understanding types of racism, to mourning the loss of Black lives and following the world-wide protests. Though these conversations are necessary for change, how do we take care of ourselves and our well-being, while still keeping the conversation alive?

@ablackfemaletherapist outlines witnessing trauma online, trying to control the way someone else behaves, and attempting to change people as being emotionally draining, things I'm sure we're becoming increasingly familiar with.

The first thing you might want to try is cutting yourself some slack — 2020 has been a tough year for many of us. Stress and anxiety were already high because of COVID-19, and have been on a steady rise. It's okay if you feel more on edge than normal, so try and be kind to yourself and to others. Check in on your friends, family, and loved ones, and ask how they're handling the events of 2020, and lean on your community for support. There is power in numbers, and some of your community may be more affected by what's happening than you are. 

Check out @hellaamelanin's guide on "How to Practice Self Care." This account is a wonderful addition to your Instagram feed, with pertinent content about protests, white privilege, and the Black Lives Matter movement. 

Social media can also be used as a support for minding your mental health. I have recently found some great accounts sharing tips, tricks, and therapeutic support on how to care for yourself. Some personal favourites of mine are @hellamelanin, @ablackfemaletherapist, and @minaa_b. Although social media accounts are not a replacement for professional support (check out some Toronto resources here) they do act as a great reminder on how to take care of yourself and others. 

If you're overwhelmed by social media, news outlets, or just in general, that's okay. It's important to understand that there are ways to work towards anti-racist praxis and activism that don't require mental stress and strain — you can take a step back. You can sign a petition (like this one motioning for the Faculty of Information to do better), support Black businesses with some retail therapy, watch a movie, or read a book. There are lots of ways to keep the end-goal in mind without sacrificing your mental health and well-being as a result. Museum Professionals of Colour and MUSSA have compiled lists of resources you can consult on your own time to further your education about combatting anti-Black racism.

If you're not a member of the BiPOC community, it's normal and expected to feel stressed, angry, upset, and confused during the protests and other anti-racist movements. Despite this, it's your time to listen and learn. A lot of personal growth towards allyship can be done behind the scenes even as you're taking a break. Don't forget that your mental health is just as important as the next person, and shouldn't be sacrificed for a social media trend — the necessary work can happen no matter what your mental availability is.