Today we have some guests to join us, Linita Burnley & Dr. Erica Morgera, as we’re focusing on a powerful and important subject: the experience of Black women parenting Black boys. We’ll explore the unique challenges, triumphs, and strategies for nurturing our future leaders.

Superwoman Syndrome refers to the pressure to embody strength and resilience at all times, often without acknowledging the toll it takes on one’s mental and emotional health. For Black mothers, this syndrome is particularly pronounced due to cultural and societal expectations.Resources: Black women suffer disproportionately from 'superwoman schema' - ABC News (go.com)  Superwoman Schema, Stigma, Spirituality, and Culturally Sensitive Providers: Factors Influencing African American Women’s Use of Mental Health Services - PMC (nih.gov)  Black women working to dismantle 'strong Black woman' trope, break stigma around mental health - Good Morning America

Throughout the episode, we'll discuss the importance of education and awareness in combatting stigma surrounding mental health. We'll delve into the significance of culturally competent care and why it's essential for mental health providers to understand the diverse needs of their patients.   We'll also explore the power of community engagement, transparency, and accountability in rebuilding trust. Our host will share their personal stories, highlighting the impact of accessible mental health services and the critical role of peer support networks.  

Thank you for tuning in to The Duality Podcast. If you found this episode insightful, be sure to subscribe and share it with others who may benefit from this important conversation. Remember, together we can make a difference in the world of mental health.  

Community Resources: 
Alta Regional California:Alta California Regional Center (altaregional.org)
WEAVE: WEAVE, Inc. (weaveinc.org)
DHCS - California County Mental Health Services : County Mental Health Plan Information: Contact, Beneficiary Handbook, and Provider Directory (ca.gov) 
Veteran Affairs: Mental Health Care | VA Northern California Health Care | Veterans Affairs  

So, grab your headphones, get comfortable, and join us on this journey as we uncover ways to cure the distrust in the mental health system.

Throughout the episode, we'll discuss the importance of education and awareness in combatting stigma surrounding mental health. We'll delve into the significance of culturally competent care and why it's essential for mental health providers to understand the diverse needs of their patients.   We'll also explore the power of community engagement, transparency, and accountability in rebuilding trust.

Our host will share their personal stories, highlighting the impact of accessible mental health services and the critical role of peer support networks.   

Community Resources: 

Alta Regional California:Alta California Regional Center (altaregional.org)
WEAVE: WEAVE, Inc. (weaveinc.org)
DHCS - California County Mental Health Services : County Mental Health Plan Information: Contact, Beneficiary Handbook, and Provider Directory (ca.gov) 
Veteran Affairs: Mental Health Care | VA Northern California Health Care | Veterans Affairs

So, grab your headphones, get comfortable, and join us on this journey as we uncover ways to cure the distrust in the mental health system.

In this episode, Myia and Brandi will guide us through the layers of co-dependency, shedding light on how it intertwines with cultural expectations, historical trauma, and systemic oppression. Together, we'll unravel the unique manifestations of co-dependency in the lives of Black women, navigating the complexities with empathy, understanding, and a quest for healing. So, whether you're seeking insights into your own journey or simply eager to broaden your understanding, join us as we embark on this illuminating exploration into co-dependency and its profound impact on Black women. Welcome to the Duality Podcast Let's dive in.  

Resources:
https://coda.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Am-I-Co-Dependent.pdf 
https://coda.org/  "Boundaries" by Dr. Henry Cloud
"Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself" by Nedra Tawwab

In this episode Myia and Brandi discuss Codependcy and Control amongst Black Women:
Codependency is a psychological and behavioral pattern in which a person becomes excessively reliant on others for their self-worth and identity. It often involves an unhealthy and dysfunctional relationship dynamic where one person enables and supports the addictive or dysfunctional behavior of another person, often at the expense of their own well-being.

Please use the resources to follow up after the episode.
Resources:
https://coda.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Am-I-Co-Dependent.pdf

https://coda.org/

"Boundaries" by Dr. Henry Cloud

"Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself" by Nedra Tawwab

In this episode Myia and Brandi discuss Self Love

Self-love is the practice of valuing, accepting, and caring for oneself. It involves developing a positive relationship with oneself, treating oneself with kindness, and prioritizing one's own well-being. Self-love includes accepting and embracing both one's strengths and weaknesses, setting healthy boundaries, practicing self-care, and nurturing a positive self-image. It is about recognizing one's worth and taking actions that promote personal growth, happiness, and fulfillment. Self-love is an important aspect of overall well-being and is essential for building healthy relationships and achieving a sense of inner peace.

Brandi & Myia explain the concept of the "black tax" in the context of the workforce and how it disproportionately affects black women.
The "black tax" refers to the additional challenges and burdens that black professionals often face due to systemic racism and discrimination. It encompasses various factors such as Racial Bias, Double Consciouness, lack of representation, Code-Switching, and more.

Myia & Brandi have a conversation about interracial relationships for Black women. They discuss the historical context of interracial relationships for Black women, acknowledge the unique challenges and complexities faced by Black women in interracial relationships due to societal perceptions and historical context.

They delve into the Historical Context and Societal Perceptions: Exploring the historical context of interracial relationships for Black women, including the legacy of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism. Discussing societal perceptions and stereotypes that impact the experiences of Black women in interracial relationships, such as fetishization, exoticization, and racial biases.

In this episode of "The Duality Podcast," hosted by two African American Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, we delve into the topic of PTSD among grieving Black women. Drawing from their expertise in mental health, the hosts explore the duality of Black women in society and shed light on the mental health issues that affect Women of Color.The episode begins by providing a comprehensive understanding of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its symptoms. It highlights the potential causes of PTSD in grieving Black women, including traumatic loss, violence, systemic racism, and social injustice. The hosts emphasize the intersection of grief and trauma, explaining how these experiences can intertwine and create complex emotional challenges for Black women.The discussion then shifts to the duality of Black women's mental health, focusing on the superwoman complex. The hosts examine societal expectations of strength and resilience, shedding light on how these expectations can further burden grieving Black women. They address the stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community and its impact on the experiences and perceptions of PTSD.Next, the episode explores the importance of intersectionality and cultural factors when understanding PTSD among grieving Black women. The hosts discuss how race, gender, and other social identities shape the unique experiences of Black women in relation to grief and PTSD. They also examine the role of historical trauma and collective grief within the African American community, emphasizing how these factors influence individual experiences of PTSD.The hosts offer practical insights on accessing support and healing. They share strategies for Black women to recognize and address PTSD symptoms, including seeking professional help, engaging in self-care practices, and cultivating a supportive network. Additionally, they highlight the significance of community-based resources, such as therapy, support groups, and culturally responsive mental health services.The episode concludes by emphasizing the importance of open conversations about grief, PTSD, and mental health within the Black community. The hosts encourage listeners to destigmatize mental health struggles and seek help when needed. They call for advocacy efforts to address systemic barriers and promote equitable access to mental health resources for grieving Black women.Through this episode, "The Duality Podcast" aims to raise awareness about the intersection of PTSD and grief among Black women. By exploring the unique challenges they face and highlighting the duality of their experiences, the hosts strive to foster understanding, support, and empowerment for Women of Color in their mental health journeys.