stepswithsisters

[stepswithsisters]

Youth Anxiety

Youth Mental Health is an all too familiar topic at many kitchen tables in America. I proudly support and encourage youth anxiety centers and treatment. It is important to care for our most precious resource - our children! 

If our children are happy and healthy, there is nothing better or more important in this world. Over the summer, I've had the privilege to speak with brave teenagers about their journeys in dealing with the effects of mental illness (either by diagnosis or a family member). So many struggle with their own challenges. Yet, they use their powerful and courageous hearts & voices to help their community. 

During this time of year, let's make an extra effort to show kindness to not only our kids, but all the kids we encounter. 

[stepswithsisters]

Self Care and Mental Health

Our individual journey towards reaching a positive mindset within our mental health, healing, and recovery doesn't end once we seek professional help. Speaking with a mental health professional is always my first advice, yet there are ways in which we can do in our personal time to make sure that we keep balanced in between those visits.

Keeping yourself healthy physically, mentally, and spiritually will keep you aligned with the best version of yourself and support your mental health.

It can be beneficial to implement certain practices. Here are a few ways that you can implement self care and getting to a better you!

Journaling

We believe that journaling is a productive way to express and later reflect on your mental health journey. By keeping a record of your progress throughout your journey, you may find it therapeutic.

Healthy Eating

Health is Wealth! It is shown that eating a healthy diet is correlated to your mental well-being. While there are sometimes barriers such as access to food and difficulties in preparing, we believe it is imperative to make an effort to nourish our bodies and be the healthiest version of ourselves.

Take CARE of your SELF!

We believe something as simple as a home facial (face mask session) can be a quick mental reset, purely this act of kindness of physical maintenance can spark positive thoughts of the mind. Caring for your mental health is a crucial part of protecting your health.

Steps With Sisters recently participated in a Health Fair at Antioch Baptist Church, where we gave away mini beauty bags to 6 lucky winners. We believe that the small things add up, and we hope that these ladies enjoy their home facials.

This weekend, I'd like to encourage everyone to take a moment for you! Whether you take a time to write, take a long relaxing walk, may be possibly purchase a new shade of nail polish...all this is BECAUSE YOU DESERVE A HEALTHY STATE OF MIND!

[stepswithsisters]

A Week of Girl's Empowerment 

"Before we become powerful women, we are impactful girls"

This week, Steps With Sisters, Inc. had the honor and privilege of attending the 10th annual (International Day of the Girl Child). Which took place at the United Nations (New York City).

The pride I felt as I watched this generation's High School and College girls speak with such passion about causes that have personally impacted their lives, with topics such as... Social Injustice of Women in countries such as Nigeria, as Denia Smith (D.C. College sophomore) spoke regarding conversations involving having an Equitable Balance of Power.  Quoting the great Shirley Chisolm, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”

Nathalia (Mexico, age 14) championing Mental Health and Well-Being of Young Girls. She spoke on the lack of mental health resources in Mexico. Quoting that "Details the critical effects of social media and how it affects her region. Together, we can close the gap in girl's rights by amplifying our voices, advocating for accessible healthcare, and promoting comprehensive education."

Shulamite (Ghana, age 14) focused on the plight of Teen Pregnancy, she talked about her advocacy and experiences regarding teen pregnancy bringing emotional, mental, physical, and financial challenges in her community. As well as the fact that these teen mothers face stigmatization as they are often abandoned by family and friends. In turn, this affects their general health and well-being.  As part of her mission, she helps girls to regain their self esteem by increasing access to services and advocating for supporting girls affected due to violence and rape. She has her own social media page where she posts about vulnerable girls hoping to receive the right support for them.  

Aarohy  (India, age 15) current Girl Scout, Speaks on the importance of mental health in schools. She hosts monthly workshops for fellow girls, which consists of poetry sessions. She suffered from low self esteem at the age of twelve. She discovered poetry and this is how she overcame childhood trauma. Recognizing that mental health issues have become an epidemic against teenagers. Acknowledging girls 15-19 suicide is the third leading cause of death. Also, acknowledging that one cannot physically tell if someone is struggling with mental health. Upon receiving the highest award in Girl Scouts, she decided to utilize poetry writing as a healthy outlet to express one's feelings in order to alleviate depression and anxiety.

*Incorporating women and girls at MSK EmpowerHer Knockout Event sponsored by both Solve the Silence and Brooklyn North High Schools, there 115 girls experienced not only the motivation and encouragement from New York City Council Member, Farah Louis, they met and enacted various boxing strategies with professional female boxers such as; Ronica "Queen" Jeffrey, Brooklyn born and three time Golden Glove winner. As well as Alicia  "The Empress" Napoleon, WBA Champion, teaching the girls that boxing disciplines positive mental health, and can also be another career option.  We are "THANKFUL" Bruce Silverglade, owner of Gleason's Gym here in Brooklyn for hosting this unforgettable event.

This week was monumental to say the least!!!  

[stepswithsisters]

On a final note ...

*LEAVE A VOICEMAIL FOR YOUR YOUNGER SELF*

Hello Nini,

The seeds of distrust planted at ages four, thirteen, and nineteen were because God knew the woman you'd be in your forties. Birthing this moment, which is only the first step an "Elect Lady". You will find courage and great favor, and love in stewarding your gifts.

You'll learn, that verbal words do in fact last a lifetime. Yet, you'll learn to turn those into positive mental notes, as you will help others move pass their trauma! Your gift is your heart, and your purpose is to help.

When you're unsure... I'm always an inner voice away... We'll talk soon.

-Tani