Empowerment Principles: The Power of Affirmations for African American Boys

Empowerment Principles: The Power of Affirmations for African American Boys

Empowerment Principles: The Power of Affirmations for African American Boys

In today’s complex world, affirmations are more than just words—they are tools of transformation. For young African American boys, who often face systemic challenges and negative stereotypes, affirmations provide a pathway to empowerment, self-belief, and resilience. At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in the life-changing impact of positive self-talk and affirmations, and we’re committed to helping young men harness this power.

This blog dives into why affirmations matter, how they work, and how you can join us in empowering the next generation of leaders.

What Are Affirmations, and Why Do They Matter?

At their core, affirmations are positive statements that help reframe how we view ourselves and our circumstances. For African American boys, who frequently face societal barriers such as systemic racism and economic inequity, affirmations can act as a counter-narrative to the negativity they often encounter.

Imagine a young man repeatedly hearing, “You’re not good enough,” or, “The odds are against you.” Over time, these statements can shape his self-image. Affirmations like, “I am capable of greatness,” or, “I am resilient and resourceful,” help replace those limiting beliefs with messages of strength and possibility.

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we integrate affirmations into our mentorship and personal development programs because we see firsthand how they inspire confidence and ignite ambition. When a boy believes in his worth and potential, he’s more likely to take the steps necessary to achieve his dreams.

The Science Behind Affirmations

Affirmations are not just feel-good mantras—they’re grounded in neuroscience. Studies show that repeating positive affirmations activates the brain’s reward system and creates new neural pathways. This rewiring helps to replace self-doubt with self-assurance.

For young African American boys, this process is especially powerful. By engaging with affirmations tailored to their unique experiences—such as cultural pride and personal growth—they develop a stronger sense of identity and resilience. Statements like, “I honor my heritage and embrace my future,” or, “I grow stronger with every challenge I overcome,” not only foster self-belief but also connect young men to a broader legacy of perseverance and excellence.

How Affirmations Build Resilience and Empowerment

Empowerment begins with mindset, and affirmations are a key part of shaping a positive outlook. Here’s how they make a difference:

  1. Reinforce Identity Affirmations rooted in cultural pride remind boys of their strength, history, and potential. For example, “I carry the strength of my ancestors,” creates a bridge between their identity and their aspirations.
  2. Promote Emotional Wellness Practicing affirmations reduces stress and anxiety. Statements like, “I am calm, focused, and capable,” help boys center themselves during difficult moments.
  3. Encourage Goal-Setting Affirmations aligned with goals—such as, “I am improving my skills every day”—keep boys motivated and on track. At Blue Heart, we pair affirmations with workshops on goal-setting and time management to amplify their effectiveness.
  4. Foster a Growth Mindset With affirmations, boys learn to see obstacles as opportunities. A statement like, “I learn and grow from every challenge,” encourages resilience and perseverance.

 

Affirmations in Action at The Blue Heart Foundation

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we integrate affirmations into everything we do. From our Mindful Heart Program to career readiness workshops, affirmations are a cornerstone of how we build confidence and self-belief in the young men we serve.

For instance, during mentorship sessions, students create personalized affirmations tailored to their strengths and goals. One of our mentees, Jayden, started with the affirmation, “I am capable of success in every subject.” Over the course of the program, he not only improved his grades but also gained the confidence to speak up in class and mentor younger peers.

We also host group affirmation circles, where boys share their affirmations with peers, fostering a sense of community and mutual encouragement. These sessions are particularly impactful, as they remind young men that they are not alone in their struggles—or their triumphs.

How You Can Help Us Empower More Boys

Now more than ever, African American boys need support, encouragement, and tools to thrive. Here’s how you can join us in making an impact:

  • Volunteer as a Mentor Share your wisdom and help guide a young man on his journey. Our mentors work one-on-one with students to craft affirmations, set goals, and develop life skills.
  • Support Our Programs Your donations help fund initiatives like the Mindful Heart Program, where affirmations are just one part of a holistic approach to empowerment.
  • Spread the Word Share this blog and raise awareness about the power of affirmations and The Blue Heart Foundation’s work. Use hashtags like #YouthEmpowerment, #AffirmationsThatMatter, and #TheBlueHeartFoundation to amplify the message.

Start Small: Affirmations You Can Share Today

Here are five affirmations you can encourage young men to adopt right now:

1. “I am strong, resilient, and capable of greatness.”
2. “I honor my identity and embrace my potential.”
3. “I am worthy of love, respect, and success.”
4. “Every challenge I face makes me stronger.”
5. “I am the author of my story and the architect of my future.”

Encourage the young people in your life to say these affirmations daily, with belief and emotion. Over time, you’ll witness their mindset shift and their confidence grow.

Together, We Rise

The power of affirmations lies not only in the words themselves but in the belief they inspire. For young African American boys, affirmations are a lifeline—a way to replace negativity with hope, fear with confidence, and doubt with determination.

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we’ve seen the incredible transformations that affirmations spark. But we can’t do it alone. Join us in this mission to empower the next generation of leaders.

👉 Learn more and get involved. Together, we can create a world where every young man feels empowered to reach his full potential.

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

If you found value in this article please...

COMMENT AND SHARE!

YOUR DONATION COUNTS! Support Us Here

Support The Blue Heart Foundation as we Educate and Motivate Our Youth! 

 

 

 

For Tracy

For Tracy

Tracy R. Morris. 1967-2022

I first want to thank you all for the love and support you’ve sent to myself our family and the whole Blue Heart team. Tracy’s memorial really encapsulated the impact that He made in the community and in the lives of our amazing young men.

And The Blue Heart Foundation will continue to change lives! I am determined to take up the cause to keep Tracy’s dream alive!

With that said, I want to introduce you to our team that will carry the torch:

Please help me welcome Mathew Gordon as Blue Hearts new President/CEO!

Mathew was one of the few men that Tracy trusted and respected in the community. He was a great friend and a brother to Tracy.
Mathew has a wealth of experience working in & for disadvantaged communities throughout San Diego County. His experience includes having served in the Fourth Council District under the first Black Female ever elected to the San Diego City Council, Council President Myrtle Cole as a community advisor.

As a former at-risk youth having experienced many challenges such as poverty & homelessness, Mathew devotes his time volunteering and mentoring with non-profit organizations that cater to under-served youth such as Reality Changers, National Conflict Resolution Center and Paving Great Futures.

This is just a snippet of his accomplishments and qualifications! I feel confident that we are in good hands! I’m excited to be working with him as we manifest the vision.

Our Blue Heart veterans are also on board to continue the mission:
Stephanie Garcia- Vice President of Development
Lan Jefferson- Vice President of Operations
Tammy Blevins- Director of Programs and Events
Mercedes Tiggs- Mindful Heart Program Manager/Therapist
Ashley Lett- Administrative Assistant
Christie Johnson- Parent Liaison
Our Student Mentors
Amari Jackson
Dallas Edge
Djarese Blevins
Giordan Lee
Lydell Dunlap
Reggie Thomas
Xavier Tillis
My hope is that you continue to run with us as we take Tracy’s vision to the next level.
Together we rise!
April Ray Morris
Co-Founder, Board Chair, VP of Finance and Technology

Teen Mental Health: What You Need To Know

Teen Mental Health: What You Need To Know

Teen mental health consists of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. While mental health is important at every stage of life, adolescence is a crucial period in developing the socioemotional learning to maintain the necessary habits for mental health. Mentally healthy teens are able to think, feel, and act in productive and positive ways, which enables them to deal with stress, relate to others, and make sound decisions.

 

Change is difficult at any age, but during adolescence our teens are too often exposed to unhealthy attitudes, images, and ideas that have been popularized as glamorous and realistic that have a negative impact on their mental health. Recent statistics suggest that almost 50% of adolescents have had some type of mental disorder.

 

Many factors can contribute to mental health problems, including biological factors, like genes or brain chemistry, life experiences like trauma or abuse, any family history of mental health problems, or socioeconomic problems. Additionally, teens are vulnerable to other risk factors that have a clear association with impacted mental health and can add another layer of challenging in regard to treatment, including:

 

  • Desire for greater autonomy
  • Pressure to conform with peers
  • Discovery of sexual identity
  • Excessive access to technology
  • Pervasive media influence
  • Suppressive gender norms
  • Violence (such as harsh parenting and bullying)
  • Sexual violence or assualt

 

Currently, thousands of teens across the country are impacted by the lack of structured socialization due to distancing learning, social distancing and other public health measures put in place as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. Teens really struggle with isolation from friends, as they often rely on connecting with others to feel good. In a society that is more connected than ever via the Internet, the social disconnection that our teens are facing can seem ironic. Regardless, the present circumstances can negatively impact mental health by adding to stress or making anxiety and depression worse for teens who already struggle with those conditions.

 

In addition to considering the effect of living conditions, we must also recognize the implications of cultural stigma, discrimination or exclusion, and lack of access to quality services on mental health, too. According to the World Health Organization, this may apply to teens living in humanitarian and fragile settings; adolescents with chronic illness, autism spectrum disorder, an intellectual disability or other neurological condition.

 

Pregnant adolescents, adolescent parents, or those in early and/or forced marriages; orphans; and adolescents from minority ethnic or sexual backgrounds or other discriminated groups are also factors.

 

Generally, the more risk factors that adolescents are exposed to, the greater the potential impact on their mental health. These factors can manifest in more visible changes that occur for young people, like issues in friendships, life transitions, puberty and/or physical changes, sense of self-identity.

 

If your teen is experiencing problems with their mental health, their thinking, behavior, and mood could be significantly impacted. When experiencing mental health conditions, it is critical to receive quality and culturally responsive care.

 

Teen Mental Health| Realities for Black Teens

Unfortunately, racial disparities in mental health access and treatment exist, and can have detrimental, lasting consequences for black teens. Recently, the Congressional Black Caucus issued a report that shows white youth still die by suicide at a higher rate, but the rate of black youth suicide has been increasing faster than any other racial or ethnic group.

 

There is a significant need for improved cultural awareness and responsiveness in the institutions that serve black teens. Specifically, schools and healthcare systems can play a major role in either helping to mitigate the disparities in terms of access and treatment or intensifying mental health conditions. As a result, there is a high risk that students, particularly black students, can suffer from the indifference and ignorance of an environment that does not promote mental health for all.

 

We all have likely seen or heard of despicable actions in schools – like a black student turned away from school simply due to their hairstyle or groups of black children being forced to reenact American history as enslaved people – occurring across the country. Further, when black teens seek treatment, they are offered medication or therapy at lower rates than the general population. 

 

At the end of the day, all children in every community deserve their best chance at success, and mental health is key to achieving it. Leaving mental health concerns unaddressed in adolescence can result in impairing physical and mental health conditions extending to adulthood.

 

While the current mental health realities for black teens are often dismal, it’s important to remember that mental health concerns are treatable, and suicide is preventable. With mental health support and prevention, teens have more capacity to regulate emotions, consider alternatives to risk-taking behaviors, strengthen resilience for difficult circumstances or adversities, and support others in social environments and networks.

 

Supporting Teen Mental Health

Mental health support and treatment is highly individual, so what may work for one teen might not work for another, but there is a wide variety of effective ways to manage teen mental health. Parents, educators, counselors, or any adult with regular interaction with teens can cultivate a safe space to promote mental wellness. These kinds of supportive environments are important at school, at home, and in the community.

 

But, when schools adopt a culturally responsive curriculum, maintain high academic standards and expectations, and address unconscious or implicit bias in the classroom, students will feel safe, supported, and engaged.

 

At home, a loving and supportive relationship with their parents can provide great support for teens, especially those who struggle with mental health issues or experience adversity in school settings. Teaching teenagers the fundamentals of self-care can also support mental health. When we guide teenagers to be more mindful of their mental, emotional, and physical state, they are positioned to be able to make positive adjustments that directly influence their mental health.

 

To start, be sure to normalize emotions like fear, anger, excitement, and frustration. This helps teens feel less isolated. Plus, recognizing emotions and learning to express them in healthy ways allows teens to put their own solutions in place. Physical health is also important for mental health, so parents should encourage an active lifestyle, healthy eating and regular sleep too.

 

By creating opportunities for self‐expression, reflection and self‐understanding through the development of relationships between members with trust and reciprocity, The Blue Heart Foundation is dedicated to the mental health of underserved African American youth in our community. 

 

We are excited to launch our signature mental wellness program, The Mindful Heart, in 2021. This program is structured to help black teens manage challenges more easily and be more appreciative and aware of positive experiences, so they can lead a more fulfilling life and achieve their goals. For more information on this upcoming program, click here.

 

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

If you found value in this article please...

COMMENT AND SHARE!

YOUR DONATION COUNTS! Support Us Here

Support The Blue Heart Foundation as we Educate and Motivate Our Youth! 

 

 

 

Try Mindfulness If Your Teen is Feeling Overwhelmed

Try Mindfulness If Your Teen is Feeling Overwhelmed

If Your Is Teen Feeling Stuck, Anxious, or Overwhelmed? Try Mindfulness

In an ideal world, every teenager would be able to understand what is most important to them and know how they can honor their truest aspirations. But in an environment of peer pressure and parental expectations, many teens experience an increase in stress, anxiety and depression. Unsurprisingly, during the school year, teens report higher levels of stress than adults do.

The increased demand in academic studies and extracurricular activities, physical and emotional growth, the looming presence of financial or family problems, evolving relationships with friends and dating, is already a huge mental burden for teens to carry.

On top of that issues related to bullying, ever-present discrimination, the realities of poverty, violence in the community, as well as any existing health conditions and ongoing health concerns with the coronavirus pandemic, can bring much higher levels of stress than ever before.

At any given time, these factors of everyday life for teens can make growing into their own a substantial challenge.

Adding on planning for the future and mulling over decisions of the past, our teens can easily get caught up in unproductive judgements and emotional reactions that can result in them feeling stuck or constantly in crisis mode.

Recent statistics from the American Psychological Association support that more than half of teens say they’re not doing enough to manage their stress.

Learning to live a happier and less stressful life can prevent teens from thoughts and behaviors that could hurt them or people around them. With healthy interventions and powerful tools like mindfulness, teens can learn to deal with stress in effective ways.

While some people may think higher education is too much of an investment of time and money upfront, it turns out the benefits consistently outweigh those costs – especially for young African American men. Read on to learn the top 6 benefits of higher education that show the importance of young African American men going to college.

 

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is a practice of cultivating a sense of self-awareness and using reflection to enhance your sense of well-being. In a mindful mental state, you are able to focus your awareness on the present moment without judgement. With a judgement-free focus on the present moment, we calmly acknowledge and accept our current state of being, emotionally and physically. When we concentrate on what we are doing and feeling right now, we begin to develop skills to recognize and let go of unnecessary and unhelpful distractions as they arise.

With roots in Buddhism, mindfulness started to gain popularity in Western practices in the 1970s, when it was established as a therapeutic intervention for stress by clinical psychologists and psychiatrists.

Simply put, mindfulness is an exercise and process of living a more intentional life and being present in the moment. There is no right or wrong way to practice mindfulness, as cultivating awareness can mean something different for everyone. It’s helpful to think of mindfulness as a mindset and a way of life, instead of a specific action or something that you do. Bringing 100% of your attention to the situation at hand, whether it’s brushing your teeth or reading a book, is practicing mindfulness. Just be in that moment, and you will achieve mindfulness.

By paying more attention to the present moment, including your current thoughts, feelings, and the state of the world around you, you can improve your mental well-being.

We all benefit from mindfulness because we are able to free ourselves from being reactive and have a more proactive approach to life. In other words, as a result of practicing mindfulness, we have the power to respond to our environment in a different way.

 

Mindfulness for Teens

When faced with the everyday stresses of teenage life, or when up against a difficult or complicated assignment, mindfulness can help teens pay attention more effectively, be less distracted, and stay calm under stress.

For example, taking a moment to check in internally before starting a test will position teens to recognize how they are feeling in that moment and use that awareness to make the best decision for themselves in that situation.

 

Without that moment of reflection, your teen is at risk of reacting from an unconstructive place and having significantly less control over their actions. Focusing on the present enables teens to take a pause and continue in a more thoughtful way. Over time, teens will start to have a better idea of what triggers them and what they can do to avoid that feeling. Ultimately, this practice will provide your teen with a much more positive outlook on life, even in tough circumstances.

 

This Positive Impact Starts with Just One Mindful Moment.

In recent years, numerous research studies have proven that mindfulness has many psychological, cognitive, and physical benefits. One study demonstrated that mindfulness practice leads to higher self-reported measures of optimism and positive emotions for students. Another outlined the benefits of mindfulness for teens, including lower rates of anxiety and depression, better sleep, stronger relationships, and increased sense of self-awareness.

Teens can easily incorporate mindfulness into their daily routines by practicing:

Mindful eating

To do this, focus your attention on your food. It doesn’t matter if it’s a meal, snack, or chewing gum. With your eyes open or closed, simply notice how your food feels in your mouth or in your hand. Does it have a smell? A particular taste? Chew slowly and notice how you feel after each bite.

Mindful breathing

For this practice, you’ll focus on how it feels to inhale and exhale. Breathing normally, can you feel the air entering your nostrils or your mouth? When you inhale, visualize how the air fills your lungs and notice that silent relief you feel when you exhale.

Mindful exercise

Whether you’re on a walk, at the gym, or working out at home, you can cultivate mindfulness in exercise. Start in slow motion and take a moment to acknowledge how your body moves as a cohesive unit and how this exercise impacts your arms, chest, legs, and feet differently.

Mindful speaking

When speaking mindfully, take time to choose your words. What words seem calm or soothing to you? Say them silently and with intention in your mind. Now, try saying them out loud. Notice how your voice sounds, in your head and out loud.

In all mindful practices, it’s normal if your attention starts to wander after a minute or so. If that happens, just bring your attention back to what you were focusing on. As with many new skills, practice makes perfect. The most important aspect of mindfulness is reconnecting with your mind and body.

 

The Blue Heart Foundation is passionate about helping our members to live in the present moment, with kindness, self-compassion and curiosity. Teenage years are for exploring – this is the time when our teenagers begin to develop ideas of what they want to do in life and what type of person they want to be, so it is important that they maintain optimal mental health.

 

The Blue Heart Foundation Announces New Mindfulness Program for Young African American Males

The Mindful Heart program, sponsored in part by the Strong Family, Thriving Communities (SFTC) coalition of The San Diego Foundation, aims to provide young African American men with the confidence and the tools they need to manage life’s challenges while maintaining an appreciation and awareness of positive life experiences.

True to Blue Heart’s mission of equipping young African American men to develop the vision and purpose they need for a successful and fulfilled life, The Mindful Heart program will enable members to build a character that commands respect, esteem, and admiration within themselves and their community.

“In our community, depression and anxiety issues are not talked about, especially when it comes to our boys. We have to change that narrative and look out for the emotional health of our youth, so they don’t carry it into their adult lives,” – Tracy Morris, Executive Director

If your son is not yet a member of The Blue Heart Foundation and you are interested in The Mindful Heart Program, learn more about becoming a member of the H.E.A.R.T. Academy here. Member applications are now being accepted through January 1st, 2021.

For more information on The Mindful Heart please send us an email at support@theblueheartfoundation.org  or call Tracy Morris, Executive Director, at 619-410-7944.

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

If you found value in this article please...

COMMENT AND SHARE!

YOUR DONATION COUNTS! Support Us Here

Support The Blue Heart Foundation as we Educate and Motivate Our Youth! 

 

 

 

Understanding Teenage Depression

Understanding Teenage Depression

Being a teenager can be challenging. understanding teenage depression is equally challenging. There are numerous changes taking place in the body and the brain of a teenager, which have lasting effects on the way they think, understand, and behave.

In addition to the psychological and physical changes, teenagers are also experiencing changes in the way that they interact with others, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Many teens across the nation are no longer interacting with their peers and teachers in-person on a daily basis, and interacting significantly more with those they live with. All of these changes can have a profound impact on their mental health.

Beyond the challenges of being a teenager, being a black teenager can bring additional distress, especially for young men. Too often, young black men face a lack of love and acceptance from their immediate communities and society at large. Plus, many young black men are not taught and encouraged to process and talk about their emotional experiences. This can create a sense of isolation, frustration, anger, and resentment which can manifest in many ways, including teenage depression.

According to the CDC, depression is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children. Recent statistics demonstrate that 7.4% of children aged 3-17 years (approximately 4.5 million) have a diagnosed behavior problem, and 3.2% of children aged 3-17 years (approximately 1.9 million) have diagnosed depression. The CDC also states that the rates of youth being diagnosed with depression (and anxiety) have increased over time.

 

Teenage depression- What is it?

While experts agree that teenage depression is common, it still should be taken seriously for every single case. Teenage depression is a serious mental health condition that results in teens feeling overwhelmingly sad for a long period of time. Typically, depressed teens are not able to concentrate or do the things they usually enjoy. This includes daily activities, like sleeping, eating, and doing school work.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of teenage depression can vary, but there are common emotional changes and behavioral changes associated with this condition. Because teenage years can be inherently tough with normal, everyday ups and downs, it can be difficult to tell if your teen is depressed and overwhelmed by life or if your teen is capable of managing these challenges.

The Mayo Clinic also outlines a variety of issues that can be involved in the cause of depression and the risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing or exacerbating teenage depression, including: changes in brain chemistry or hormones, inherited traits or early childhood trauma, learned patterns of negative thinking, being a victim or witnessing violence, having issues that negatively impact self esteem, having a learning disability or other mental health condition, abusing alcohol, nicotines or other drugs, and being LGBTQ+ in an unsupportive environment.

If signs and symptoms of depression begin to interfere with your teen’s daily life or cause you to have concerns about their safety, talk to a doctor or mental health professional.

If you think you may be depressed, or have a friend who may be depressed, talk to a health care provider like your doctor, school nurse, or trusted adult. Don’t wait to get help.

 

It is important to note that teenage depression is not a sign of weakness or a flaw in character; it cannot be overcome with strength or willpower. Most people with depression need long-term treatment to get better and manage the consequences of this mental disorder. Specifically, medication and psychological counseling can provide some ease with the symptoms of depression.

 

Teenage depression for black youth

For African American youth, teenage depression is notably different in the causes, perceptions, and treatment. Mental health professionals outline the specific challenges that young black men face that can negatively impact their mental health. In addition to lacking the resources, information, and space to process and talk about their emotions, young black men are often celebrated only for their bodies, looks, and abilities, and not their brains.

These expectations of young black men leave little room for recognition and value of their brains, particularly their emotional intelligence. As the mental and emotional health of young black men is not honored and respected by society, they are susceptible to unique obstacles in getting the treatment they need for conditions like depression.

Researchers agree that African American youth face significant unmet needs regarding treatment for depression. Researchers have found that these unmet needs could be the result of black youth having a lack of willingness to trust peers, adults, and clinicians.

In a recent study, African American youth report that these adult figures do not understand them, make ineffective efforts to relate to them, or betray their trust. As a result, researchers found that African American youth, particularly boys, tend to not seek help from adults and feel as though they can handle it on their own.

Because depression is a mental health condition that is not overcome by sheer strength, willpower, or desire, this approach is not only ineffective, but also troublesome. Mental health professionals explain that depressed young black men, without adequate treatment and support, can seem shut down or, at its worst, display outward expressions of aggression.

 

Helping our teens cope with depression

In addition to getting support from a doctor or mental health professionals trained to work with adolescents, there are actionable and effective strategies to help your teenager cope with depression. These strategies include:

 

  • Letting your son know that you want to know how he is feeling and that you are available to talk. Even if he is not ready to talk to you right now, knowing that you care and that you are interested in his well being is helpful. Ask what will work for him, and brainstorm ways to deal with his feelings on a day-to-day basis.
  • Encouraging your teenager to keep up with his daily activities. Even if it is for shorter periods of time, or less often, help your teenager participate in the activities that he enjoys. Staying busy, doing things that help him relax, and keeping in touch with others that he likes and trusts is especially important at this time.
  • Preventing your teenager from isolating themselves from their family and friends. Help him identify a few trusted people, whether they are family members, friends or peers, and encourage your son to keep in touch with someone at least once a day.
  • Providing opportunities for your son to get some form of exercise multiple times a week. Being active and healthy can improve your teen’s mood. Additionally, make sure he has opportunities to keep his sleep schedule and regular diet.
  • Suggesting that he keeps a journal to express himself. Writing and drawing can help teens identify and process what they are feeling, in addition to creating an outlet for self-improvement. It is important to respect your son’s expression and creative process – allow this journal to be for his eyes only, unless he would like to share.
  • Maintain respect for your son’s feelings and emotions by protecting his privacy. While you should be readily available to talk with your son about his mental health, this should not be blatant, obvious special treatment.

 

There is an urgent need to champion black mental wellness, especially for our boys. In response, The Blue Heart Foundation remains committed to promoting high self‐esteem, emotional well being and a positive sense of self. We strive to create opportunities for self‐expression, reflection and self‐understanding through the development of relationships with other Blue Heart members and our community. Learn more about the H.E.A.R.T. Academy here.

 

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

If you found value in this article please...

COMMENT AND SHARE!

YOUR DONATION COUNTS! Support Us Here

Support The Blue Heart Foundation as we Educate and Motivate Our Youth!