Unmasking the Silent Struggles

I usually write these articles and tell stories of my experiences helping other people. Since May is Mental Health Awareness Month, I’ve decided to share my experiences this time around. I’ve dealt with anxiety and depression. My first taste of anxiety was during my childhood. Growing up in Flatbush during the crack era was like living in a war zone. You had to mentally prepare yourself before you left the house because the streets were crazy. That was before crack hit us.

Suddenly there were gunshots all night long. Someone on my block was shot by a stray bullet standing in front of their window. Even being inside your house wasn't safe. So, yeah… I had anxiety as a child. 

After leaving home, going away to college and seeing the world outside Brooklyn I was no longer on edge until one day in medical school and I walked into the hospital. All of the sudden I felt nervous, and I could not understand why I felt that way. I wasn't in danger, I wasn't scared of anything. I just felt extremely nervous and out of sorts and I couldn't understand why.  I couldn't shake it. Eventually I sought help and they gave me xanax for anxiety. I stopped taking it after a week. Taking that was worse than the anxiety.

Besides anxiety, I’ve also dealt with depression, insomnia…you name it. Stories for another day 🙂

This is why I do what I do. It’s personal. 

If this article helps one person, I know I’ve fulfilled my purpose. But enough talk, let’s goooo!!

Depression: The Hidden Battle

Understanding Depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad; it's a persistent mood disorder that affects daily functioning. Symptoms include prolonged sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, fatigue, and feelings of worthlessness. In severe cases, it can lead to suicidal thoughts or actions.

Prevalence Among Black Women

Black women experience depression at rates comparable to or higher than other groups but are less likely to receive treatment. Factors such as systemic racism, socioeconomic disparities, and cultural stigmas contribute to this underdiagnosis and undertreatment. African American women are less likely to seek mental health services due to these barriers.

Traditional Treatments

• Pros: Antidepressant medications and psychotherapy have been effective for many.
  
  

• Cons: Potential side effects of medications and cultural mistrust of mental health services can hinder treatment adherence.
  
  

Holistic Approaches

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness-based stress reduction have shown promise in alleviating depressive symptoms.
  
  

• Physical Activity: Regular exercise can boost mood and reduce depressive symptoms.
  
  

Cannabis and CBD

Emerging research suggests that CBD may have antidepressant-like effects, though more studies are needed to confirm its efficacy. Our products at DrDamas.com are specially formulated by me to support mental well-being.

Routes of Administration:

• Sublingual Tinctures: Quick absorption and easy dosage control. We offer a variety of Tinctures. Different strokes for different folks!

• Edibles: Longer-lasting effects but slower onset.

• Topicals: Targeted relief for physical symptoms associated with depression. Our Rolliever provides localized comfort.
  
  

Pearls:

• Cultural stigmas often prevent Black women from seeking help for depression, leading to prolonged suffering.
  
  

• Integrating holistic practices with traditional treatments can enhance overall outcomes.
  
  

Anxiety Disorders: The Unseen Weight

Understanding Anxiety

Anxiety disorders encompass conditions characterized by excessive fear or worry. Symptoms include restlessness, rapid heartbeat, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances.

Prevalence Among Black Women

Black women are disproportionately affected by anxiety disorders but are less likely to receive adequate treatment due to barriers like limited access to care and cultural stigmas. Research in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders indicates that African American women report higher levels of anxiety but are less likely to receive treatment (source).

Traditional Treatments

• Pros: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications like SSRIs are effective for many.
  
  

• Cons: Side effects of medications and limited availability of culturally competent therapists can be challenges.
  
  

Holistic Approaches

• Yoga and Breathing Exercises: These practices can reduce anxiety symptoms and promote relaxation.
  
  

• Dietary Adjustments: Reducing caffeine and sugar intake can help manage anxiety levels.
  
  

Cannabis and CBD

CBD has shown potential in reducing anxiety symptoms in various studies. A review in the Neurotherapeutics journal discusses the anxiolytic effects of cannabidiol. Products from DrDamas.com are designed to support anxiety management.

Routes of Administration:

• Vaping: Provides rapid relief but may not be suitable for everyone.
  
  

• Capsules: Convenient for consistent dosing.
  
  

• Topicals: Useful for physical manifestations of anxiety like muscle tension. The Rolliever can be applied to tense areas for relief.
  
  

Pearls:

• Anxiety in Black women is often underdiagnosed due to cultural perceptions of strength and resilience.
  
  

• Incorporating CBD into a comprehensive treatment plan may offer additional relief.
  
  

Chronic Stress and the 'Strong Black Woman' Schema

Understanding Chronic Stress

Chronic stress refers to a consistent sense of feeling pressured and overwhelmed over a long period. It can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease, depression, and a weakened immune system.

The 'Strong Black Woman' Schema

This cultural expectation pressures Black women to appear strong, self-reliant, and emotionless, often leading to the suppression of emotional needs and increased stress levels. A study in the American Psychologist explores how this schema contributes to mental health disparities.

Traditional Treatments

• Pros: Therapy can help in developing coping strategies.
  
  

• Cons: Stigma and lack of culturally sensitive care can deter Black women from seeking help.
  
  

Holistic Approaches

• Community Support: Engaging with supportive communities can alleviate feelings of isolation.
  
  

• Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like meditation can reduce stress levels.
  
  

Cannabis and CBD

CBD may help manage stress by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system to promote balance. A study in the Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry journal discusses CBD's role in stress reduction.

Routes of Administration:

• Edibles: Provide prolonged effects, suitable for ongoing stress management. Our CBD Gummies are a convenient option.
  
  

• Topicals: Can be applied during self-care routines to promote relaxation. The Rolliever is ideal for this purpose.
  
  

Pearls:

• The 'Strong Black Woman' stereotype can hinder emotional expression and increase stress.
  
  

• Integrating CBD into daily routines may offer a natural way to manage chronic stress.
  
  

Rolling It All Up

I've never had a good experience with pharmaceuticals. It’s something I share with all of you. If there's some way that I can manage the things I’m going through without making myself feel even worse- I’d prefer that. The idea that there is a single pill that will solve all our problems is ridiculous. Where I’m from we’d call that wolf tickets..game.

There is no single solution. You have to clean everything up if you want the result you are looking for. CBD and cannabis are just one part of that (you have to do the other stuff as well 😊). 

Sisters particularly face unique mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and chronic stress, often compounded by cultural expectations and systemic barriers. While traditional treatments are effective, incorporating holistic practices and CBD products can. If you have questions feel free to contact us- we’d love to hear from you. 🙂

• Addressing mental health requires a multifaceted approach that considers cultural, systemic, and individual factors.
  
  

• Consulting with healthcare professionals before starting any new treatment, including CBD, ensures safety and efficacy.
  
  

For trusted, high-quality CBD products formulated to support mental health, visit DrDamas.com. Your journey to wellness is personal, and we're here to support you every step of the way!