The Responsibility of Language: Mental Health and Writing Activism

I view writing and other creative expressions as forms of activism. Like many of the ancestors before me, I recognize words' role in supporting movements and driving impact. But as a Black woman with my own mental health challenges, I am reminded that this work can and does take its toll in various ways. That’s why I intentionally ensure that I protect my mental well-being by any means necessary.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. It is also the month in which George Floyd was murdered, and my outlook as an executive storyteller changed. In 2020, I was responsible for helping a number of organizations craft their internal and external messaging. And then the 25th happened. While I was personally grappling with the turmoil, I was called in to help others figure out what to say in a time of crisis that snatched our collective breath away. I encouraged my clients to be open and transparent. Use language that acknowledges the suffering, sighs, and speechlessness that impregnated that moment in history. It wasn’t the first time (nor would it be the last time) a Black man’s life was cut short at the hands of those called to serve and protect.

One client shared they “couldn’t afford to get involved in the confusion” especially on the heels of businesses being shut down due to the pandemic. I. Was. Livid. And ashamed. Ashamed that I’d attached my name to an organization that chose silence over humanity. Devastated as I realized that my values and well-being were no longer aligned with a client whose mission I believed in so deeply. I resigned. Effective immediately. That moment would become pivotal in my approach to protecting my mental health. I learned a few lessons that I’d like to share with you today:

1. Set boundaries: As a writer, getting caught up in your work and neglecting other areas of your life can be easy. However, this can lead to burnout and negatively impact your mental health. Set boundaries for yourself, such as a specific work schedule or time limits for working on particular projects. Also, be sure to take breaks and engage in self-care activities, such as exercise or spending time with loved ones. I didn’t do any of these things, I just buried myself in the feeling that I had to say something, do something, and support my clients as they grappled with it all too. Not setting boundaries and unplugging from the work thrust me into an angry, depressive spiral. That impacted my family, and it sucked.
2. Practice self-compassion: It’s important to be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion, especially when dealing with the emotional toll of writing about difficult topics. This work is hard. I had to release myself from the guilt of “being a willing accomplice” to the silence that reverberated in the years before. And I also had to learn to separate my accomplishments from my disappointments. One did not negate the other. I encourage you to do the same. Acknowledge your accomplishments, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you experience setbacks.
3. Seek support: Connecting with other writers with similar interests or goals can be helpful. Joining a writing group or attending workshops can provide opportunities for networking and support. Additionally, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can be beneficial in managing stress and other mental health concerns. I honestly don’t know how I would survive without my Black women writer mastermind group chat and therapy appointments. They see me. They hear me. They get me. And it helps knowing I have support in place for when the walls come caving in.
4. Keep writing: Writing as activism can be emotionally draining, and it’s easy to feel powerless in the face of societal issues. However, taking action and continuing your writing work can provide a sense of purpose and empowerment. Take a moment to separate your “cause” writing from your “care” writing. Spend some time reconnecting with your feelings and journaling as a self-care practice. It helps to get it out of your head and onto a page.

May is always a reminder month for me. Reminding me to check in on how I’m feeling and how I’m doing. May 2020 became a paradigm shift for me as I committed to mental well-being over everything. I made the decision that my words were more than work for hire. Each project from that time forward would have to align with my values and dedication to freedom for others. It’s been nearly three years of accepting the responsibility of my language, and I haven’t felt better. The journey continues.