An Open Letter from Shekinah

Dear Reader,

Every year, the mental health community floods your timelines, emails, and newsfeeds with tips on how to stay well during this season. And while I love that this month is dedicated to mental wellness, I wanted to take a moment to connect with you directly.

More than just tips or strategies, this month is about deepening the conversation, removing stigma, and acknowledging that mental health is a journey we all share.

For me, Mental Health Awareness Month is also a time to reflect on my own journey toward becoming the best version of myself mentally. It’s a time to think about the ups, downs, and everything in between that has shaped me, not just as a therapist, but as a person who truly understands the importance of mental health.

Growing up, my first introduction to mental health was my father. Before I knew what counseling was, I watched him guide many people through their day-to-day challenges. Whether through his work as a mental health technician, youth minister, prison ministry, senior saints ministry, pastor, or simply how he brought peace and understanding to conversations with my brother, mother, and me, he taught me the healing power of being understood, understanding others, and practicing unconditional acceptance.

These experiences gave me insight into the struggles many people face daily and how finding the right support can change everything.It wasn’t until after his death and the work of rediscovering my own purpose that I realized I wanted to help others do the same.

This month (and every other month, for that matter), I want to encourage you to take a moment (actually, take many moments) to reflect on your own mental health journey, find practical ways to prioritize your well-being, do something you love, and think about what makes you your best self, mentally.  Love on you!

As always, I’m here for you. I see you, I hear you, and I’m so proud of you for continuing to show up for yourself. You are doing better than you realize, and your mental health is worth every effort you put into it.

Thank you for being a part of this community. We are all on this journey together, and I’m truly honored to walk alongside you.

Stay tuned for our next email, where we’ll provide resources for our readers to expand their mental health.

With love,

Shekinah

The Purposed Therapist