May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being, reduce stigma, and promote open, honest conversations around mental health. Since its launch in 1949 by Mental Health America, this month-long campaign has worked to show the need for support, understanding, and care for individuals facing mental health challenges.
In recognition of this important month, I had the privilege of connecting with the insightful and brilliant Ms. Kelley Bonner, founder of The Black Girl Burnout podcast. A licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience, Kelley has helped countless individuals and organizations heal from burnout and create transformative, sustainable change. Her podcast ranks in the top 5 in the wellness category, offering deeply resonant insight for Black women and beyond.
Through her company, Burn Bright Consulting, Kelley is revolutionizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training. Her proprietary frameworks have proven to foster innovation and build healthier, more inclusive workplaces. Her expertise has led her to collaborate with global organizations such as the Biden Administration, the U.S. Military, the Library of Congress, the National Academy of Sciences, the United Nations, and NATO, developing strategies for violence prevention and workplace safety.
At the heart of Kelley’s work is a profound understanding of Black Girl Burnout, a unique form of burnout shaped by the lived experiences and historical trauma of Black women. This condition is rooted in the legacy of slavery and the societal expectations that followed, where Black women were valued primarily for their labor. These ingrained pressures have caused many to tie their self-worth to productivity, leading to rooted emotional exhaustion and disconnection from their true selves. Black Girl Burnout is not just stress; it is a generational experience that demands unlearning and intentional healing.
Kelley emphasizes the importance of creating space for self-care, especially in the face of adversity. Visuals and recordings of the murder of George Floyd and similar tragedies have triggered trauma responses in many, including:
- Persistent anxiety
- Sleep disruptions
- Flashbacks
- Freeze responses
While these symptoms can impact anyone, they resonate uniquely within Black communities, where mental health needs have long been overlooked or dismissed.
The film Sinners shows the significance of juke joints served as a sanctuary from racial violence.
In today’s hustle culture, popularized phrases like “hustle wellness” and “girl boss” can sometimes distort the conversation around mental health. Often led by individuals without the necessary qualifications, these narratives can oversimplify and even undermine the seriousness of mental health struggles.
Kelley shares, “When faced with difficult times, I focus on nurturing my softness and resilience. I create tiny steps, be practical, listen to my favorite song, limit screen time, and go for a walk. Even taking time for self-care once a week is crucial. Healing is not about powering through. It’s about creating sustainable practices that honor our struggles and our need for care.”
For real, resonant conversations around burnout, healing, and empowerment, tune in to The Black Girl Burnout Podcast, available on all major streaming platforms.