Many of us would consider ourselves to have some level of stress. For some, it can be balancing work & home life, children & partnerships, finances & debit, or trying to simply manage COVID times. Essentially, day-to-day stressors are commonly experienced by most people. However, there are individuals with stressors beyond the average “norm.” Those who involuntarily embody the idea of simply having “more on their plates” without complaining because society has reinforced this false narrative. And in return, these individuals bear heavy loads without seeking help, because who would understand? The thought of managing less seems like an unattainable dream. Why is this?
Photo by Melissa Koby via Instagram
We live in a society that lacks a holistic outlook for various reasons. Today’s fast paced way of life promotes the notion that, “I can’t complain about having too much on my plate when the goal was to eat.” This mindset can be problematic, it does not account for those with “more” placed onto their plates without asking for it, nor the impact of being forced to consume it. You know, those who fear for their lives when they leave home because of their skin tone, or encounters with police officers. You know, those plagued as carries of diseases not effectively managed; 2020’s accusation of “The Chinese Virus” or 2003’s accusation of the SARS outbreak being a result of Asian-Americans. You know, those who are antagonized or murdered for who they love or being their authentic selves. Thus, resulting in an increase of LGBTQIA+ hate crimes. You know, those who earn significantly less than their male peers for completing the same job tasks. Believe me, the list goes on!
Most people are aware of the negative impacts of stress and its ability to effect one’s mental health, physical health and ultimately affecting life expectancy. However, the inflicted impact of stress on marginalized communities continues to be overlooked.
“If you see inequality as a “THEM” problem or “unfortunate other” problem, that is a problem.”
ALLOSTATIC LOAD WITHIN MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES
Allostatic load – “the wear and tear on the body which accumulates as an individual is exposed to repeated or chronic stress.” (McEwen, 1993). Essentially, an everyday experience of those within marginalized communities. The calls for racial equality that occur only after highly publicized injustices have occurred is triggering. Ongoing healthcare disparities for such individuals is triggering. Redundant movies depicting the struggle of minority communities for the sole entertainment of others is triggering.
There are 3 identified zones of arousal a person experiences: hyperarousal (too much arousal), optimal arousal (appropriate arousal level) and hypoarousal (too little arousal).
Marginalized communities experience an increased frequency of hyperarousal daily. Meaning – WE NEVER GET TO TURN OFF! Signs of hyerarousal include tension, emotional reactivity, hyper-vigilance, anger, and rage just to name a few. So, when cities and communities are in uproar let us be sure we are looking at the full picture. Many protests and marches are a catalyst of people tired of societal complacency when it comes to being disregarded. Black Trans women and Trans women of color are sick of transphobic and violence implemented on them. Black people are tired of baring the “aggressive” target placed onto our backs by a society that continues cultural appropriation and killing of our people. Minority cultures are tired of having to “prove their place” in American society. The importance of recognizing trauma such as this is critical. A missed opportunity to do so results in trauma being passed down to generations, creating generational suffering.
Tips for marginalized community members:
· Don’t suffer in silence, your stress is more commonly shared than you may think. Reach out and connect with others. (Zoom backgrounds and unsteady facetimes get old quick)
· Seek therapeutic support from a diverse clinician that is trained to meet your needs. (A neutral perspective can be enlightening)
· Create self-care routines that allows for groundedness and regulation. (A non-triggering Netflix binge does the heart wonders from time to time)
· Include face-to-face connection as best you can while social distancing. (If there is a park or even an outdoor area take advantage of it. Break out those folding chairs)
· Connect with organizations in your community. (We all have hidden gems within our own backyards)
Image by Monday via Instagram
CULTIVATING CHANGE & SPREADING AWARENESS
The fight for change has never been an easy road, as we are still finding ourselves navigating this path. Social awareness is vital, let us take the first step by enlightening ourselves about marginalized communities and the suffering taking place. Vocalize and hold others accountable for injustices as you see them. Instead of resharing traumatizing content via social media us it to promote resources for those in need.
For those seeking additional ways to have their voices heard, educate yourself of organizations that support marginalized communities. Inquiry if their purpose aligns with your view. There is power in numbers and together we can all be the change by taking even the smallest of steps.
Image by Tarn Ellis via Instagram
· Identify what is being done in your local city to help oppressive communities.
· Connect with grassroot organizations and get involved.
· Donate to marginalized organizations that support your views.
· Support businesses that support you.
· Sign petitions surrounding topics that resonate with you
“As the ongoing fight for change continues, I leave you with these words, I may be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.”
Meet the Author: Brittany Spencer, LCPC
Brittany Spencer, LCPC, is a therapist at Space Between Counseling Services. Brittany works with individuals and couples in the Charm City area as they manage stress, grief, BIPOC Struggles LGBTQIA+ related concerns, and more.
Brittany’s integrative therapeutic approach and ongoing trainings to better support marginalized populations has allowed her to interact with a diverse population to increase self-awareness, allow a safe space for societal & systemic processing, and development of coping skills that allows her clients to show up as their authentic self. Processing life is not always easy, sometimes a safe space, a computer screen (during COVID times) or a comfy couch can be the most simplistic start to allow someone to show up for themselves. Brittany strives to increase the autonomy of her clients.
When not working to evolve her counseling skills, Brittany enjoys outdoor activities. As the weather changes, you’re likely to catch her at local 5k races in the Charm City area. As a former collegiate athlete, Brittany loves basketball and all things related. Above all else, Brittany enjoys spending time with her wife and family.