Black Girl On the Rise: Re-Balancing… ACT 1

A Love Story to Black Women: Aspiration, Resilience, and the Power of Self-Care

Growing up on the southside of my hometown in the 90s and 2000s, I was surrounded by a culture that shaped me, one built on the unwavering strength of Black women who never stopped fighting for what they wanted. It wasn’t until I got older that I learned about the city’s history of redlining and zoning policies, the ways these systems were designed to keep everyone “in their place.” But what those systems didn’t account for was the spirit of the Black women I grew up with, women who refused to stay put, who pushed boundaries, and who made their own rules.

My childhood was rich with examples of resistance and reinvention. My own mother, despite the obstacles placed in her path, became a champion to me. She taught me the value of hard work, but also the importance of never looking like what you’ve been through. She’s no stranger to reinventing herself, and she does it without fear. My cousin blazed a trail for me, showing through action what it means to dream big and believe in yourself. She was the first person I was close to who went to college, and despite challenges, she made lemons into lemonade, eventually becoming a nurse practitioner. Another woman from the southside, another model for what was possible for a Black girl like me.

I learned early on the value of never giving up on my dreams. And as a child of the 90s and 2000s, I was introduced to models of empowerment outside my family, too. The Spice Girls and their girl power movement (shout out to Scary Spice), Lil Kim saying what was seen as not “ladylike,” but she was real and unapologetic. There are so many others I could name. Reflecting on all of this, I couldn’t be more grateful for these models of strength, resilience, and possibility.

But now, as an adult, I find myself reflecting on the lessons, the blessings, and the hard work. This article is a love story—to Black women, to our aspirations, and to the need for self-compassion. It’s a reminder that, just like a car, we need to stop for gas. Our gas is time, rest, and joy.

Systemic Oppression and Mental Health: The Numbers Don’t Lie

The reality is, Black women face unique pressures rooted in systemic oppression. The city I grew up in still bears the scars of redlining and exclusion, and the impact is real. According to the American Psychological Association, Black women report higher levels of stress related to racism and discrimination compared to other groups. This chronic stress is linked to increased risk for depression and anxiety. Only about 31% of Black adults with mental health needs receive treatment, compared to 48% of white adults (U.S. Office of Minority Health). Black women are more likely to be primary earners, yet earn just 63 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men (National Women’s Law Center). Health disparities are also persistent, higher rates of hypertension and diabetes, often linked to unmanaged stress and limited access to preventive care. Only 5% of psychologists in the U.S. identify as Black, making it harder for Black women to find providers who understand their lived experiences.

These numbers aren’t just statistics. They’re a reflection of daily realities that impact mental health and well being. The pressure to “be strong” and overcome adversity is real, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of your own health.

What Does Rebalancing Actually Look Like?

Self-care isn’t just bubble baths or spa days, though those are great, too. It’s about making your own well-being a priority, even when life gets busy. Here are some practical ways to support balance:

Ideas to Help You Rebalance

1. Schedule “You Time”
   Block off regular time in your calendar just for yourself. Treat it like any important meeting.

2. Find a Therapist or Support Group
   Therapy isn’t just for crisis. It’s a space to process, heal, and grow. Culturally competent therapists can make a big difference.

3. Connect with Your Community
   Lean on friends, family, or groups where you feel seen and supported. Shared experiences can be powerful and healing.

4. Set Boundaries
   Practice saying “no” without guilt. Protect your energy by limiting commitments that drain you.

5. Rest—and Mean It
   Don’t just sleep. Take intentional breaks. Allow yourself to unplug and do nothing, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

6. Move Your Body
   Whether it’s dancing, yoga, or a walk, movement can help release stress and boost your mood.

7. Get Creative
   Journaling, art, music…creative outlets are great ways to process emotions and recharge.

8. Celebrate Your Wins
   Big or small, acknowledge your achievements. Give yourself credit for what you’ve accomplished.

9. Practice Mindfulness
   Meditation, deep breathing, or simply being present can help you stay grounded when things get overwhelming.

10. Ask for Help
    You don’t have to do it all alone. Reach out when you need support, and accept help when it’s offered.

Final Thoughts

Our history as Black women is a love story of unwavering strength, tenacity, and bad-ass energy coded in our DNA. We beat down doors that systems built to disadvantage us. In the words of Maya Angelou, “Still I rise.” This essay is meant to honor our aspirations, but also remind us of the value of self-care and self-compassion. We deserve to pause, refuel, and embrace joy. Our dreams are important, but so are we. Keep reaching for the stars, but remember to check in with yourself along the way. You deserve it.