African American Affirmations

My name is Teána (T-ahna) and as a mother, Black woman and DV survivor I know that I can be my own worst critic. My healing journey has brought me a long way and I now know I am worthy. Realizing that has helped heal the little girl in me who did not think she would ever be worthy. Growing up around addiction, imprisonment, and adults that did not keep me safe has taught me to use my lived experience to not only encourage myself but others as well. I can now say I am on an amazing journey of discovery as a Black woman that has been able to face her trauma and mental health diagnosis with radical acceptance. Before I had ever heard of a peer supporter I had been in that role for majority of my life and never put a name to it. I now know that individuals around me are not the only ones who deserve to be supported, I had to learn to support myself emotionally and uphold boundaries that cater to a healthy mental state of being. My faith made me realize I had to, if I wanted to be a good mother to my children who had now received their mental health diagnosis. The peer support community has given me the strength I need to learn to thrive and not merely survive. What is still missing from our community is more parent support around our own mental health diagnosis and parenting children with mental health diagnosis. As well as the topic of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) because it is a diagnosis that is underrated. I would love to provide support for peers around these topics and any topic where I can meet you where you are. If you are reading my profile, I look forward to connecting with you soon.