Get ready for an inspiring conversation as Jordan chats with Mila and Carissa, the trailblazing duo behind Mental Health Boxes. Born from Mila’s own experience receiving self-care packages during mental health treatment, each box is filled with empowering tools to help young Black girls nurture their well-being and prioritize self-care. Tune in to hear how this incredible initiative is transforming lives and fostering mental wellness, one box at a time!

(T-Kea will be returning soon!)

Spotlight
Kendrea Johnson, a first grade student from Minneapolis, MN, died by suicide on December 27, 2014, at the age of 6.

Resource
Mental Health Boxes is a community-led initiative that actively seeks to close gaps in mental health resources and foster a supportive network for Black girls. The organization offers curated toolboxes designed to promote self-care, resilience, and open conversations, specifically tailored for Black girls aged 6 to 16.

Community Changemaker
Brianna Baker is the founder and Executive Director of Justice for Black Girls, a non-profit that focuses on honoring the fullness of Black girlhood in ways that disrupt the systems that dishonor Black girlhood. Brianna’s work is both a space for Black girl safekeeping, and a national rallying cry for us all to listen to, love, and affirm Black girls’ genius and power.

Upcoming Events!
Black & Suicidal Peer Support Group
Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Sign Up Here!

Moment of Inspiration:
So many individuals are taking strides to promote mental wellness in Black youth, like Carissa and Mila. It is imperative that we provide safe spaces to listen to our youth with empathy and without judgment. We hope this episode will inspire more youth to raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health challenges.

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Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community. Support the cause!

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Jordan is joined by Rafiah Maxie-Cole, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and mother, to share her personal journey of healing following the loss of her son, Jamal. During a moment of reflection in Jamal’s room, Rafiah noticed a pair of her son's sneakers and became inspired to support other families in crisis. Rafiah founded the Soul Survivors of Chicago, a non-profit organization committed to suicide prevention within the African-American community.

(T-Kea will be returning soon!)

Spotlight
Gary Taylor, a husband and father from Kentucky, died by suicide on January 5, 2023 at the age of 42.

Resource
Sole Survivors of Chicago is a non-profit organization dedicated to suicide prevention and the promotion of mental health and wellness in the African-American community. Sole Survivors offers community outreach on mental health and suicide prevention, virtual support groups for individuals impacted by suicide, shoe donations through the “Walk In Purpose” project, and much more.

"We are ONE" Support Group (1st and 3rd Wednesday monthly from 6-7 PM CST; scroll to the bottom of the webpage to connect via Zoom)

Soul Survivors of Chicago on Eventbrite

Makes Me Wanna Holler: Healing from Loss, Learning From Tragedy & Finding Recovery

While the Children Fade

Community Changemaker
Arron Muller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, therapist, speaker, mental health influencer and founder and owner of Modify Wellness, Inc. Arron founded Modify Wellness to help normalize mental health and wellness within the Black community - providing affordable resources, education, and support services.

Upcoming Events!
Black & Suicidal Peer Support Group
Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Sign up here!

Moment of Inspiration:
We encourage all our listeners and viewers to check in with a male family member or friend. Please share this episode with them and let them know that they are loved and supported.

Donate
Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community. Support the cause!

Shop
Get your merch and support the show!

Connect with Us!
Follow BPDBST on IG
Follow BPDBST on TikTok
Subscribe to BPDBST on Youtube
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Jordan is joined by WyKisha McKinney, a suicide loss survivor, to discuss her journey of recovery after losing her younger brother to suicide. WyKisha shares her experience with suicidal ideation after her brother’s passing and how she found a way to heal and move forward from that difficult time. As a speaker, mental health advocate, and social entrepreneur, she highlights how supporting others was a key factor in her own recovery process.

(Don't worry, T-Kea will be returning soon!)

Spotlight
LaQuantae Jackson, a student at Kentucky State University and expectant father, died by suicide on September 28, 2021 at the age of 22.

Resource
The Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors works to decrease stigma, increase understanding of the suicide loss experience, and provide direct support to survivors. ​​They provide online healing support and other services for people who are coping with devasting loss to suicide.

Additional Resources for Suicide Loss Survivors
AFSP - I've Lost Someone
NAMI - Family Support Groups
DSBA - For Friends And Family
American Association of Suicidology

Community Changemaker
Solomon Thomas is a defensive end for the New York Jets and co-founder of The Defensive Line, a non-profit that seeks to end the public health crisis of youth suicide, especially for young people of color, by transforming the way we communicate and connect about mental health. Solomon lost his sister, Ella Elizabeth Thomas, to suicide.

Upcoming Events!
Black & Suicidal Peer Support Group
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Sign up here!

Moment of Inspiration:
If you are a suicide loss survivor, like Wykisha or Solomon, you don’t have to feel alone. There are several resources and organizations that can assist you with navigating your grief and pain. Please check out the resources section in the show notes or description box for assistance.

Donate
Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community. Support the cause!

Shop
Get your merch and support the show!

Connect with Us!
Follow BPDBST on IG
Follow BPDBST on TikTok
Subscribe to BPDBST on Youtube
Follow BPDBST on Facebook
Follow BPDBST on LinkedIn
Follow T-Kea on IG and TikTok
Follow Jordan on IG

T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Tramaine EL-Amin, Vice President for Mental Health First Aid USA at the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, to highlight the significance of recognizing and responding to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges. Just as CPR offers lifesaving assistance to those in physical distress, Mental Health First Aid trains participants to provide support to individuals experiencing behavioral health difficulties.

Spotlight
Derek Cummings, a former US Marine from Ohio, died by suicide on August 8, 2003 at the age of 30.

Resource
The National Council for Mental Wellbeing is an organization that drives policy and social change on behalf of more than 3,400 mental health and substance use treatment organizations and the more than 10 million children, adults and families they serve.  The National Council offers many services, including Mental Health First Aid training, which teaches participants how to assist and support others who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge.

Community Changemaker
Chikeia Boykin has a passion for helping and serving others. She is a clinical social worker who also teaches Mental Health First Aid to reduce stigma around mental health. Serving as the Recording Secretary of Black People Die By Suicide Too, Chikeia uses meticulous documentation and advocacy to amplify the organization's impact.

Upcoming Events!
Black & Suicidal Peer Support Group
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Sign up here!

Moment of Inspiration:
If you want to help make a positive impact toward mental health, consider enrolling in trainings like Mental Health First Aid. It goes a long way in breaking down stigma and dismantling myths.

Donate
Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community. Support the cause!

Shop
Get your merch and support the show!

Connect with Us!
Follow BPDBST on IG
Follow BPDBST on TikTok
Subscribe to BPDBST on Youtube
Follow BPDBST on Facebook
Follow BPDBST on LinkedIn
Follow T-Kea on IG and TikTok
Follow Jordan on IG

Disclaimer: Information on our platforms about individuals lost to suicide is sourced from loved ones, social media, and news. While we strive for accuracy and sensitivity, the data may be incomplete. If you wish to add or correct information, please email [email protected]. We respect families' wishes and address concerns promptly. Thank you for understanding. Sending love and light!

T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Jasmine Price, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, to discuss the impact of generational trauma within Black families. Specializing in historical and intergenerational trauma, Jasmine is the founder of Pride of Nyla, a clinical practice that focuses on decolonizing mental health approaches to foster healing and resilience.

Spotlight
Courtney Jamal Dewar, Jr., a New York rapper under the stage name Capital Steez, died by suicide on December 24, 2012 at the age of 19.

Resource
Black Therapists Rock is a non-profit organization that mobilizes over 30,000 mental health professionals committed to reducing the psychological impact of systemic oppression and intergenerational trauma. Founded by Deran Young, LCSW, Black Therapists Rock seeks to organize black mental health professionals towards action in decreasing the stigma and barriers to psychological and social well being among marginalized communities.

Community Changemaker
Shenikka Moore-Clarke, MSW, LICSW, is a licensed holistic psychotherapist and transformational coach who is trauma-informed, culturally conscious, and anti-oppressive. She founded The Healing Vibe, a therapy and coaching practice that strives to help individuals, couples, and groups through a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth.

Upcoming Events!
Black & Suicidal Peer Support Group
Date: October 30, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Sign up here!

Moment of Inspiration:
We have the ability to break generational trauma by engaging in our own healing. We are not responsible for our trauma but we are responsible for our healing.

Donate
Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community. Support the cause!

Shop
Get your merch and support the show!

Connect with Us!
Follow BPDBST on IG
Follow BPDBST on TikTok
Subscribe to BPDBST on Youtube
Follow BPDBST on Facebook
Follow BPDBST on LinkedIn
Follow T-Kea on IG and TikTok
Follow Jordan on IG

Disclaimer: Information on our platforms about individuals lost to suicide is sourced from loved ones, social media, and news. While we strive for accuracy and sensitivity, the data may be incomplete. If you wish to add or correct information, please email [email protected]. We respect families' wishes and address concerns promptly. Thank you for understanding. Sending love and light!

T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Janiah Fields, a senior psychology major and Africana Studies minor at McDaniel College, to discuss her work as a mental health advocate for Black youth, particularly around the issue of suicidality. Janiah provides insight on how to foster mental wellness within younger generations.

Spotlight
Siwe Monsanto, a young student, gifted dancer, writer and guitar player from NYC, died by suicide on June 29, 2011 at the age of 15.

Resource
The Black Mental Health Alliance works to develop, promote and sponsor trusted culturally-relevant educational forums, trainings and referral services that support the health and well-being of Black people and their communities.

Additional Resource
Dr. Rheeda Walker encourages us to take inventory of our psychological fortitude, a measure of how well an individual can cope with difficult situations. Dr. Walker rates this score from 0 to 10, with 0 representing a lack of desire to go on with life and 10 representing the highest level of resilience. Strive for a score of 7 or better. To learn more, check out her book titled The Unapologetic Guide To Black Mental Health.

Community Changemaker
Dr. Earl Turner, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and a tenured associate professor in Los Angeles, CA, who founded Therapy for Black Kids (T4BK). T4BK was created to help parents deal with the challenges of racial injustice and foster resilience to promote healthy development.

Upcoming Events!
The 2024 Midwest Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Summit
Date: October 17-18, 2024
Location: Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, OH
Click here for more info.

Black & Suicidal Peer Support Group
Date: October 30, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Sign up here!

Moment of Inspiration:
Your story and your voice are powerful. Share them, and you might inspire someone else to find their own path to healing.

Donate
Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community. Support the cause!

Shop
Get your merch and support the show!

Connect with Us!
Follow BPDBST on IG
Follow BPDBST on TikTok
Subscribe to BPDBST on Youtube
Follow BPDBST on Facebook
Follow BPDBST on LinkedIn
Follow T-Kea on IG and TikTok
Follow Jordan on IG

T-Kea is joined by her childhood friend of 20 years, Raymond Baynard, a Broadway performer and SUNY Purchase graduate, to discuss mental health in the entertainment industry. Tune in as they explore the unique pressures of the stage, the importance of self-care, and how Raymond navigates his mental wellness as a professional artist.

Spotlight
Jovan Belcher, Kansas City Chiefs Linebacker, died by suicide on December 1, 2012. Prior to his death, Jovan took the life of his girlfriend, Kassandra Perkins.

Resource
Wellbeing in Entertainment and Creative Arts (WECA) envisions an entertainment industry guided by trauma-informed principles, by which the health, safety, and wellbeing of artists and entertainment workers are prioritized throughout the entire creative process, from pre- to post-production.

Community Changemaker
Michelle Williams, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter of the former group Destiny's Child, has been advocating for mental health and sharing her journey with depression in her memoir "Checking In: How Getting Real About Depression Saved My Life - and Can Save Yours". Michelle opens up about suicidal thoughts, the importance of her faith, family, and friends, as well as the lessons she has learned about prioritizing mental health.

Upcoming Events!
The Kickback Brunch
Date: September 28, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: The Empanada Lady, 10 South St, Ste 100, Baltimore, MD 21202
Get your tickets here!

Black & Suicidal Peer Support Group
Date: September 30, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Sign up here!

Moment of Inspiration:
In the world of entertainment, where the spotlight often shines brightest on your triumphs, it is crucial to remember that your struggles are just as real. Let's continue to break the silence, support one another, and prioritize mental health. Together, we can create a more compassionate and understanding industry. Remember, you are not alone and seeking help is a sign of strength.

Donate
Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community.  To donate, text "STOPSUICIDE" to 53-555.

Shop
Get your merch and support the show!

Connect with Us!
Follow BPDBST on IG
Follow BPDBST on TikTok
Subscribe to BPDBST on Youtube
Follow BPDBST on Facebook
Follow BPDBST on LinkedIn
Follow T-Kea on IG and TikTok
Follow Jordan on IG

T-Kea and Jordan are joined by Rana Campbell, entrepreneur and host of the Dreams in Drive Podcast, to discuss balancing the responsibilities of motherhood while working to achieve personal and professional goals.

Spotlight
Jamal Clay died by suicide on May 27, 2020 at the age of 19. His mother, Rafiah Maxie-Cole, founded Soul Survivors of Chicago to promote suicide prevention, mental health, and wellness.

Resource
The Dreams in Drive Podcast caters to creative and lifestyle entrepreneurs who want to learn how to take their entrepreneurial dreams out of PARK and into DRIVE. The podcast discusses branding, marketing, personal and professional development, success, and small business advice.
 
Community Changemaker
Shivonne Odom is the owner of Akoma Counseling Concepts, LLC, a mental health counseling and consultation practice that specializes in women's mental health and perinatal mental health counseling. Shivonne is passionate about improving the mental health of women and promoting women's empowerment. 

Upcoming Events!
Webinar - Beyond Success: Addressing Suicide Among Executives, Public Figures, & High-Achievers
Date: September 17, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM EST
Location: Virtual
Register here!

Suicide Awareness and Prevention Symposium: It's Okay to Not Be Okay
Date: September 21, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Reid Temple A.M.E. Church, 11400 Glenn Dale Blvd, Glenn Dale, MD 20769

Community Event: Black Mental Health Matters Too
Date: September 24, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM EST (Doors open at 4:30 PM)
Location: Robinwood Community Recreation Center, 469 Tyler Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403

The Kickback Brunch
Date: September 28, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: The Empanada Lady, 10 South St, Ste 100, Baltimore, MD 21202
Get your tickets here!

Moment of Inspiration:
Life's transitions are opportunities, not obstacles. Follow your dreams and embrace change as the wind that propels you toward your destination. Life changes can actually push us closer to our dreams rather than holding us back. 

Donate
Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community.  To donate, text "STOPSUICIDE" to 53-555.

Shop
Get your merch and support the show!

Connect with Us!
Follow BPDBST on IG
Follow BPDBST on TikTok
Subscribe to BPDBST on Youtube
Follow BPDBST on Facebook
Follow BPDBST on LinkedIn
Follow T-Kea on IG and TikTok
Follow Jordan on IG

T-Kea is joined by Zaira, mental health advocate and creator of the podcast Adoptees Crossing Lines, to discuss the emotional impact of being adopted. Zaira also discusses the experience of volunteering for BPDBST as a member of the Communications committee. 

Spotlight
DeAndre Jones, son of boxer Roy Jones Jr., died by suicide on June 22, 2024 at the age of 32.

Resource
The Adoptees Crossing Lines podcast shares the raw truths about the experience of being an adoptee and deconstructs the romanticism of adoption. Adoptees Crossing Lines exposes the lies, abuse, and pain that gets silenced.

Community Changemaker
Dr. Sade Dunn is a Licensed Professional Counselor/Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and an Assistant Professor at Bowie State University. Dr. Dunn is the founder of Methods Therapy, LLC, a private practice that offers individual, family, and group counseling in addition to vocational services and medication management.

Upcoming Events!
Webinar - Beyond Success: Addressing Suicide Among Executives, Public Figures, & High-Achievers
Date: September 17, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM EST
Location: Virtual
Register here!

Suicide Awareness and Prevention Symposium: It's Okay to Not Be Okay
Date: September 21, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Reid Temple A.M.E. Church, 11400 Glenn Dale Blvd, Glenn Dale, MD 20769

Community Event: Black Mental Health Matters Too
Date: September 24, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM EST (Doors open at 4:30 PM)
Location: Robinwood Community Recreation Center, 469 Tyler Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403

The Kickback Brunch
Date: September 28, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: The Empanada Lady, 10 South St, Ste 100, Baltimore, MD 21202
Get your tickets here!

Moment of Inspiration: "There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." - John Brown

Donate
Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community.  To donate, text "STOPSUICIDE" to 53-555.

Shop
Get your merch and support the show!

Connect with Us!
Follow BPDBST on IG
Follow BPDBST on TikTok
Subscribe to BPDBST on Youtube
Follow BPDBST on Facebook
Follow BPDBST on LinkedIn
Follow T-Kea on IG and TikTok
Follow Jordan on IG

On this week's episode, T-Kea is joined by Dr. Raquel Martin to discuss the importance of having healthy boundaries, self-care, and wellness. Dr. Martin, a licensed clinical psychologist, researcher, and professor at Tennessee State University, explains how setting boundaries positively impacts mental health and distinguishes the difference between boundaries and rules.

Spotlight
Lowell Hawthorne, the founder and CEO of Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill, died by suicide at the age of 57 on December 2, 2017.

Resource
The Mind Ya Mental Podcast seeks to educate, empower, and uplift those seeking guidance through the monumental world of mental health and wellbeing. 

Community Changemaker
Dr. Thelma Bryant is a psychologist, professor, and researcher who directs the Culture and Trauma Research Laboratory at Pepperdine University. Dr. Bryant is the author of the books Thriving in the Wake of Trauma: A Multicultural Guide and Homecoming: Overcome Fear and Trauma to Reclaim Your Whole, Authentic Self.

Upcoming Events!
Mental Health Symposium
Date: September 21, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Reid Temple A.M.E. Church, 11400 Glenn Dale, Glenn Dale, MD 20769

The Kickback Brunch
Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Get your tickets here!

Moment of Inspiration:  "Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel." - Eleanor Brown 

Donate
Your support helps us to fulfill our mission of preventing suicide in the Black community.  To donate, text "STOPSUICIDE" to 53-555.

Shop
Get your merch and support the show!

Connect with Us!
Follow BPDBST on IG
Follow BPDBST on TikTok
Subscribe to BPDBST on Youtube
Follow BPDBST on Facebook
Follow BPDBST on LinkedIn
Follow T-Kea on IG and TikTok
Follow Jordan on IG

Disclaimer: Information on our platforms about individuals lost to suicide is sourced from loved ones, social media, and news. While we strive for accuracy and sensitivity, the data may be incomplete. If you wish to add or correct information, please email [email protected]. We respect families' wishes and address concerns promptly. Thank you for understanding. Sending love and light!

Due to organizational challenges and our team's dedication, we're taking July to reset and prepare for National Suicide Prevention Month in September.

During our break, you can support us by donating, attending our support groups, or volunteering. Your help keeps our mission alive. We'll be back in August, ready to continue our work in mental health advocacy. Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding.

July: Black & Suicidal Peer Support Group

Sign-up here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/july-black-suicidal-peer-support-group-tickets-940640640477?aff=ebdsoporgprofile 

If you are interested in volunteering, please send your resume to: [email protected]/