We are living through a time of great exposure of pain and suffering as a result of a 400+ year history of a society built on an un-even playing field for its members. While this uneven playing field exists for gender, religion, sexual orientation, ability, class, education level, nationality, primary language, etc., I am going to center my reflection on the uneven playing field for Race- Racism- and mental health, which has been stigmatized.

The increase in suicide rates over the past decade have prompted widespread awareness surrounding mental health problems, resulting in an increased need to address mental health crises that plague our society. My hope is that future generations will be less affected by this epidemic as we further our intent as a society to seek help and improve mental health awareness.

This post is my story about how undiagnosed ADHD convinced me- a productive, vibrant and succeeding woman- that I was merely a successful impostor. AND it’s the story of how I personally found freedom, self-love and authenticity by understanding my brain.

How can we, a field of predominantly White Americans address racism in our profession and in our work with clients?

Trauma occurs when there is a loss of a sense of safety. That loss can be the result of direct exposure to or witnessing natural disasters, violence and other life-threatening events.

Statistics about physical and sexual violence are more readily available than psychological violence and emotional abuse in part because it is easier to see injuries from physical and sexual violence.

More adults had thoughts of suicide in 2016 than live in New York City, London, or double the population of Los Angeles. That's a lot of people. Yet, outside the counseling office, not one friend or family member shared with me that they had thoughts of suicide.