BIPOC/Minority Mental Health Month - Using Integrative Approaches For Wellness

July is Minority Mental Health Month (now known as BIPOC Mental Health Month) - a nationwide effort developed by Mental Health America to shed light on the multitude of mental health experiences within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities and others that face disproportionate inequities due to systemic barriers and historical adversity.

My international experiences and upbringing have influenced my approach to mental health and wellness. I am an Asian Indian woman who lives in San Francisco, United States. I was born and raised in London, England and my parents were born in Africa with Indian ancestry. I have been influenced by each countries approach to wellness, and how we need to take an integrative approach to mental health. What I mean by an integrative approach is how therapists need to help their client’s explore numerous approaches to mental health. Talk therapy is important, but also other approaches need to be explored. An integrative approach to mental health includes exploring your cultural practices, what you eat and drink to nourish the body, the importance of movement (i.e. walking), the role of religion and spiritual practices, and your social support. For Minority Mental Health Month, I want honor the non-traditional western approaches that may be helpful to your wellness – prayer, using herbs, and movement. When you take care of your body, it helps your mind and spirit.

I have been inspired by a certification training I took on integrative health for mental health professionals. I am now a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider! Growing up in an Indian household, my aunties and mum always talked about the use of herbs to help with ailments and health. This past weekend, I was so inspired by my family and integrating what I learned in my course, my son and I made mint and verbena tea. For years, I have been growing herbs in my garden but never put them to good use, because I didn't know the power of herbs in taking care of my mental health. The course taught me verbena is good for the mind in relieving stress and nervousness. Mint is good to help relieve anxiety and stress.

I love tea, so my son and I decided to make tea! We enjoyed the process of picking the verbena and mint tea leaves. Being out in my garden on a foggy San Francisco day enjoying the fresh air was relaxing. I enjoyed the whole process and sharing it with my son. And I felt very relaxed after my cuppa mint and verbena tea!

Wellness is a process and includes what you eat and drink, touch, and being connected with others. I hope you will explore ways to take care of your mental health during these times, keeping it easy and simple.

This month, I will continue to share tips, ideas, and thoughts on ways to explore mental health needs of our community.

Please take care during COVID-19.

Ulash