According to the Mental Health Foundation, social and economic factors can put women at greater risk of poor mental health than men. However, women generally find it easier to talk about their feelings and have stronger social networks, both of which can help protect their mental health.

Today, with D’Andrea Bolden we discuss why the conversation about mental health is so important. D’Andrea Bolden is a prolific writer that enjoys writing non-fiction books to a multi-faceted audience. She is a gifted communicator and sought-after speaker for mental health and corporate events. D’Andrea has earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology; chemistry, a master’s degree in counseling, and a master’s degree in medical sciences.

For over a decade, D’Andrea has been involved extensively with non-profit community-based work to assist low-income families, the homeless population, and to provide mental health solutions.

She is the founder and director of Faith + Mental Health. She is very passionate about the intersection of faith and mental health understanding that scientific evidence supports that there are benefits to an integrative multidimensional holistic approach. Ultimately, D’Andrea desires to see the faith-based community free of stigma and knowledgeable on how to address mental health.

What was the inspiration behind your brand?

The inspiration behind my brand is knowing that both faith and mental health are important to people. They don’t have to be separated they can both work together as we all pursue to become the best version of ourselves.

Do you believe in work-life balance? If so how do you maintain it?

Absolutely, I am a wife and mother first and I take those roles very seriously. I refuse to lose sight of family for work or personal ambition.

Why is the conversation about mental health so important?

The conversation about mental health is for everyone.

D’Andrea Bolden

Mental health can be defined as your emotional and psychological well-being. Based on that definition you can recognize that we all need to take care of our mental health. And we should also be honest with ourselves and know if we need professional help. You might not know what is going on with you but we all know when we are not at our best. So many people will post about mental health on social media and even talk about it yet they are still reluctant to book that first appointment.

What are your thoughts on needing to end the stigmas around mental health?

We have to remove the stigma and realize it’s ok to get help. Life can be a tough journey with so many challenges and it can be exhausting. Sometimes you can’t seem to catch your breath as life’s challenges keep piling up along with the bills. On top of that, many are already dealing with family drama, the aftermath of childhood trauma and also trying to heal from failed relationships.

What words of encouragement would you have for those seeking tools to cope with their mental health diagnosis and triggers?

I would say that life keeps going so we have to be able to have the right tools to cope and heal for real. Not these cute little memes and catchphrases but truly healing from the inside out. That conversation is needed because so many women in particular are hurting.

I emphasize women because many are single mothers and they can not give their best if they are not their best (referring to mental health). Parenting can be draining by itself so if a person is not mentally and emotionally healthy they might not be able to show up and be the parent their children deserve. I cannot tell you how many women have reached out to me privately afraid to go get professional mental health services in fear of losing their children. There is much to be said but even more needs to be done.

Ultimately, learning about mental health can help you and those around you. We have to get fed up seeing people come to their breaking point. There is no shame in getting the help. We are all imperfect and have room to heal, grow, and evolve.

What do you have planned for the next six months?

May 4th- 6th I am hosting and speaking at the 2023 Faith + Mental Health Hybrid Summit.

Learn more about D’Andrea Bolden and Faith + Mental Health by visiting https://www.dandreabolden.com/