The “Just Heal, Bro” tour provides a safe space for Black men to share their struggles, seek support, and promote healing (Photo Credit: Living Hope Co./Facebook).
The loss of a loved one is always painful, especially when it comes as an unexpected shock.
In recent years, many Black families have experienced the heartbreaking news of Black men they love taking their own lives. Suicide has become the third leading cause of death among Black adolescents aged 15-19 and the second leading cause of death among Black youth aged 10-14.
When life’s burdens feel insurmountable, some young Black men have tragically turned to suicide as an escape. It may not have been their only option, but in that moment, it felt like the only way out—the belief that death is preferable to suffering.
“I think this is a very unique time, and a lot of men are looking for answers. A lot of men are looking for support. They’re looking for ways to begin healing recovery and just a life of restoration. So, I believe that we will take part in a preliminary stage of being able to get these brothers to foster healing,” said Dr Jay Barnett.
“What we are doing on this tour is creating space for men from all walks of life to begin being very reflective about their lives and also to begin restoring their lives for the better.”
The “National Black Male Mental Health Tour: Just Heal, Bro” seeks to address the many mental health challenges facing Black boys and men. In this male-only space, attendees are encouraged to share their stories openly and receive practical advice. The event promotes healing through experiential and clinical discussions led by influential Black men.
Lamman Rucker, actor and advocate and a regular panelist on the tour, emphasizes the importance of these spaces:
“Men in our community really need the space and opportunity to explore how well they really are. We can often silence our own stories and our voices and are not conditioned to express ourselves or to explore how we feel, so to have this powerful opportunity to come together with like brothers in a safe, male-only space is life-changing, especially if we lock arms collectively and really make a commitment to this healing journey as a brotherhood community.”
For some, locking arms in solidarity may mean sharing their thoughts of suicide with a trusted family member or friend.
For others, it might involve admitting they need more support— going to therapy, seeking medical treatment, joining a healthy men’s group or attending church.
The journey may take many forms, often involving a combination of activities—whatever path it takes, the process must be embraced with intention and commitment.
“Mental health is a pervasive issue in all communities, yet there are unique determinants that adversely impact Black men. This tour is an opportunity for men to find strength in vulnerability, to develop emotional intelligence, and receive tools that will foster healing while building brotherhood,” says Hope Allen, executive producer of the “Just Heal, Bro” program.
Jason Wilson, a prominent voice on the tour, discussed how men often “embrace suffering in silence and wearing it as a badge of honor—even to the point of suicide.”
He shared his 4 R’s method for breaking this cycle: reflect, release, reset and rest.
Reflecting by engaging in introspective work is essential for healing. Release what needs to be let go at the right time—don’t hold on too long. Reset by staying focused on the present. Rest by freeing yourself from the weight of past traumas, Wilson added.
Whatever you do, remember to “Just Heal, Bro!”
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Help is available.
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