Although Black History Time is a time of celebration, it’s also a time to reflect. This year’s theme of resistance reminds us not just of Black American achievements but of the many forms of oppression that continue to exist today—and how they can affect the health and well-being of Black employees and their families.
Research shows that young adults experiencing continued discrimination are at higher risk for mental health challenges throughout their lives. According to the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities, African Americans are 20% more likely to experience psychological distress than whites but half as likely to get mental health treatment due to stigma, fear of judgment, and a shortage of Black mental health professionals, among other factors. Moreover, anxiousness, stress, and depression are 15%–21% higher in Black youth than in the general youth population, according to our Calm 2023 Workplace Mental Health Trends Report. Download the report here for more insights.
For employers, Black History Month presents an opportunity to evaluate how your organization’s culture supports Black employees and their families and to take steps to improve their experience and mental well-being. A preventive approach to employee mental health, for example, can break through stigma, reduce stress and anxiety, and build mindfulness and resilience.
Calm mental well-being resources featuring Black creators
In honor of Black History Month, and to provide mental health support for Black employees and their families, we’ve curated a selection of Calm meditations, Sleep Stories, and music featuring Black artists, activists, and mindfulness experts. Accessible from anywhere, anytime, these resources integrate easily into daily routines and schedules.
Meditations
Lama Rod Owens is a meditation teacher, author, and activist specializing in helping people care for themselves. He’s the author of bestseller Love and Rage and co-author of Radical Dharma: Talking Race, Love and Liberation. Owens’s work invites you into the cross-sections of his life as a Black, queer, male born and raised in the South. His life experience gives him a unique ability to understand, relate, and engage with those around him in a sincere way.
Kate Johnson is a meditation teacher, writer, and mother who loves integrating embodiment, justice, and the practice of wise relationship in her work. She’s also the author of Radical Friendship: Seven Ways to Love Yourself and Find Your People in an Unjust World.
Sleep Stories
Kelly Rowland is a four-time Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter, actress, and executive producer with over 40 million records sold. She’s also known all over the world as a founding and cherished member of Destiny’s Child.
Timothy Alexander White is a voice-over artist, graphic designer, videographer, and photographer. He has voiced thousands of TV and radio commercials nationwide and photographed singers, TV stars, and former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Before becoming a voice-over artist, Tim enjoyed a successful 30-year career as a radio announcer in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Music
Six-time Grammy nominee Jhene Aiko has crowned a breakthrough year with three new Grammy nominations for her R&B masterpiece Chilombo, including for the prestigious Album of the Year. She was also recently nominated for an American Music Award for Best Sound/R&B female and two Soul Train Awards. Jhene’s 2020 album Chilombo—now certified Platinum with seven gold and platinum singles—twice tipped the Billboard R&B Chart at number one.
Recommitting to Supporting Black Employees and Their Families
Black History Month is a time to honor the achievements of Black Americans in the past and to commit to doing more to support them today. Employers play a vital role in shaping the daily experiences of Black employees and families. Together we can build understanding and take action to create inclusive, equitable environments where Black people can thrive.
For more information on proactively supporting employee mental health and well-being, check out our pricing or connect with a Calm specialist today.
