Mental Health Resources That Serve Us All

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, here are trusted platforms, apps, and orgs centering mental wellness for our communities.

1. Therapy for Black Girls

What it is: A space dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls.

What they offer: Therapist directory, podcast, blog, community space, and wellness tips.

Why it matters: Representation in therapy matters—and this platform helps you find someone who gets it.

IG: @therapyforblackgirls | therapyforblackgirls.com 

2. Mental Health America (MHA)

What it is: One of the nation’s leading mental health nonprofits focused on early intervention and advocacy.

What they offer: Free mental health screening tools, educational resources, and inclusive programs.

Why it matters: Mental health access starts with awareness—and MHA meets people where they are.

IG: @mentalhealthamerica | mhanational.org

3. NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness

What it is: The largest grassroots mental health org in the U.S., offering peer-led support and education.

What they offer: Support groups, helplines, culturally competent programs.

Why it matters: Whether you’re seeking help or helping someone else, NAMI’s resources are built for every background.

IG: @namicommunicate | nami.org

4. Express Yourself Black Man

What it is: A wellness platform and movement supporting the mental health of Black men through storytelling, community, and healing resources.

What they offer: Mental health content, affirmations, podcast interviews, and a safe space to feel without judgment.

Why it matters: This platform challenges the stigma around masculinity and mental health, empowering Black men to heal out loud.

IG: @expressyourselfblackman | expressyourselfblackman.com

5. The Jed Foundation (JED)

What it is: A nonprofit working to protect emotional health and prevent suicide among teens and young adults.

What they offer: Programs for schools and colleges, expert-backed resources, crisis support tools, and mental health campaigns.

Why it matters: JED empowers young people with the tools to care for themselves and support each other—no one has to struggle alone.

IG: @jedfoundation | jedfoundation.org

6. Headspace 

What it is: A leading mindfulness and meditation app designed to support mental wellness through science-backed tools.

What they offer: Guided meditations, sleep support, stress reduction practices, movement sessions, and therapy options (via Headspace Care).

Why it matters: From deep breaths to better sleep, Headspace helps you build everyday habits that care for your mind.

IG: @headspace | headspace.com

7. We The Urban

What it is: A digital media platform and community spotlighting self-love, mental health, and identity for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ audiences.

What they offer: Empowering content, affirmations, mental health education, community-building conversations, and cultural commentary.

Why it matters: With over 1.5 million followers, We The Urban turns your feed into a daily reminder to heal, grow, and protect your peace.

IG: @wetheurban | wetheurban.com

Mental health isn’t one-size-fits-all.

There’s power in finding what fits you.

Save, share, and send this to someone you care about.

#MentalHealthAwareness #ThePepTalk

XOXO,

The Pep Talk

2025 Glow-Up Challenge: Mind, Body, and Soul Edition ✨

Transform your year with intentional practices for your mind, body, and soul. Here's your ultimate guide to glowing up in 2025: 

Mind

1. Daily Gratitude Journal: Start or end your day by writing down three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice can shift your mindset and help you focus on the positive.

2. Learn Something New: Dedicate just 10 minutes daily to learning a new skill or diving deeper into a topic you’re passionate about.

3. Unplug for an Hour: Disconnect from screens and spend time reading, reflecting, or simply being present.

4. Set Weekly Goals: Break down your big dreams into smaller, achievable steps to keep you on track.

5. Positive Affirmations: Boost your confidence and focus with daily affirmations tailored to your goals. Write them down or say them aloud—make it a habit.

Body

6. Hydration Check: Commit to drinking at least 8 glasses of water each day. Your skin, energy, and overall health will thank you.

7. Move Daily: Whether it’s a walk, dance session, or yoga, aim for 30 minutes of movement every day to keep your body active and energized.

8. Sleep Upgrade: Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night to recharge and rejuvenate.

9. Nourish Well: Focus on eating more whole foods and incorporating colorful fruits and vegetables into your meals.

10. Stretch It Out: Spend 5–10 minutes stretching each morning to wake up your body and improve flexibility.

Soul

11. Meditation Practice: Take 5–10 minutes a day to meditate and connect with your inner self. Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you.

12. Random Acts of Kindness: Spread positivity by doing something kind for someone else. A small gesture can make a big difference.

13. Reconnect with Nature: Schedule time each week to walk outside or spend time in a green space to ground yourself.

14. Creative Outlet: Nurture your soul by starting a hobby like painting, writing, or crafting. Let your creativity flow.

15. Declutter Your Space: Organize one area of your home each week. A clear space often leads to a clearer mind.

Ready to glow up in 2025? 

Start incorporating these habits into your routine and watch the transformation unfold. Remember, it’s all about progress, not perfection.

Share your journey with us on Instagram  @thepeptalkblog ! 🩷

Xoxo, The Pep Talk Blog

6 Must-Read Books Written by Black Women ✨📚

Reading is a beautiful way to nourish your mind, body, and soul. This year brought us some incredible books that deserve a spot on your shelf. Here are 6 must-read books by Black women to add to your 2025 reading list! 

"A Love Song For Ricki Wilde" by Tia Williams 

Genre: Contemporary Romance

"A Few Rules for Predicting the Future: An Essay" by Octavia E. Butler 

Genre: Nonfiction 

"What You Leave Behind" by Wanda M. Morris 

Genre: Thriller / Mystery 

"Be a Revolution: How Everyday People Are Fighting Oppression and Changing the World--And How You Can, Too" by Ijeoma Oluo 

Genre: Nonfiction / Social Justice 

"Keep A ‘Livin’" by Kathy A. Alexander 

Genre: Historical Fiction / Coming-of-age 

"Out Of Office" by A.H Cunningham

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Whether you're craving romance, diving into history, or exploring social justice, these reads promise to leave a lasting impact. Add them to your 2025 reading list and let their words nourish your mind, body, and soul. Happy reading! 📚

Xoxo, The Pep Talk Blog