Mental Health Awareness Month
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Hi friend, As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on a truth that’s been hard to ignore lately: I’ve spent so much time teaching my son how to care for his mental well-being, yet there are still areas I’m just now learning how to handle for myself. I’m always in protective mode. For my son, for others, for myself. But what I’ve realized is that this “protective spirit” has often been misunderstood. Most of the time it's viewed as controlling or bossy. What's not considered is the root of it: I show up this way because I’ve rarely felt or feel protected by anyone. And somewhere along the way, that became my normal. That kind of emotional isolation (suppressing your needs, skipping boundaries & doing it all while pretending you’re good) can wear on your soul. It can leave you feeling like you can’t trust anyone to love you in a way that brings you peace of mind. It's exhausting. It's depressing. And if this resonates with you, I want you to know: You’re not wrong for wanting to feel safe. You’re not dramatic for wanting to be deeply cared for. And you’re absolutely not alone. You deserve love that protects. Love that nurtures. Love that doesn’t make you shrink to keep the peace. And if you're ready to take a step toward healing, here are a few resources that may help: 🖤 Therapy Resources (for Black women & those on a budget):
This newsletter isn’t about giving you a to-do list. It’s about reminding you that your feelings are valid, your story matters, and you deserve a soft place to land, within yourself and with others. Here’s to finding your version of peace.🫂 Ingrid |