The foundation of stress among marginalized communities is multi-faceted, encompassing economic factors, education, discrimination, and limited opportunities for advancement. For Black women, however, the burden is intensified by the impact of racism, sexism, and possibly heterosexism. These lead to disparities that are supported both statistically and anecdotally.
According to one study, by age 45, half of the Black women who participated had high-stress scores, while by age 64, more than 80% did. However, shame as well as the expectation that Black women are meant to be strong, independent, and constantly available for others, all decrease the likelihood that Black women will seek support. This is also compounded by the scarcity of Black mental health care providers and services. Jolinda Johnson, a forty-one-year-old Black woman and certified Life and Holistic Health Coach emphasizes the need for a shift in perspective. "Stress is inevitable, but losing your health to the effects of chronic stress and burnout is optional. What so many of us are missing is the right kind of support."
Burnout, often associated with white corporate employees, is a shared experience cutting across professions for women of color. Stemming from years of striving for excellence while having to navigate systems intentionally designed to hold them back, Black women are at a higher risk for heart disease, depression, anxiety, and other chronic conditions.
While systemic change is needed, both on the governmental and organizational levels, individual choices that support physical and mental health can still create positive change. According to Johnson, as women, we are taught to judge ourselves against an impossible standard but we never learn how to genuinely support our bodies and minds.
The normalization of exhaustion, perpetuated by societal pressures and the need to constantly prove oneself, leaves Black women feeling depleted. In a survey by Every Level Leadership, 78% of Black women reported that they sometimes, rarely, or never have the ability to go home at the end of the workday with energy in reserve. The elusive concept of rest promises replenishment and renewal, but Black women, especially those with intersectional identities, struggle to find it.
But burnout doesn't only happen as a result of having too many demands with little or no time to recover, it can also be a result of stress that comes from being constantly under-recognised and under-challenged. For others, it may be the consequence of not having clear roles and expectations, and having to guess accordingly.
Furthermore, the damaging stereotype of the "angry Black woman" has far-reaching consequences in the workplace. Exclusion from career growth opportunities and emotional policing contribute to the exhaustion from everyday workplace stresses. Fear of being seen as hostile often silences Black women, preventing open communication about their struggles.
Jolinda Johnson points out, "Burnout is a result of having to constantly prove your worth in a society that was never designed for you to feel worthy."
To address burnout among women of color, Johnson has crafted a course that speaks specifically to their needs. Building a strong foundation by supporting your health in addition to reclaiming rest, rejecting perfectionism, and embracing self-compassion are the cornerstones of her work. In her words, "Understanding and addressing these factors are essential for managing and recovering from burnout."
We may live in a world that glorifies hustle, but rest is a basic requirement for all, rather than a luxury for the privileged few. Reclaiming rest involves not only ensuring sufficient sleep but also establishing firm boundaries and prioritizing pleasure. Whether through hobbies, moments of tranquility, or simply indulging in activities that bring joy, these are all fundamental for getting out of survival mode, as per Johnson.
To embark on the path of resilience, adequate nutrition, exercise, and sleep can not be forgotten. Nutrition serves as the fuel for both the body and mind, fostering vitality and mental clarity. Regular exercise enhances physical health while additionally acting as a powerful antidote for stress. Deep sleep is also critical for recovery, as not getting enough has been linked to everything from high blood pressure to irregular menstrual cycles, to hypothyroidism. According to Johnson, getting these steps right is essential when going from surviving to thriving.
When it comes to burnout, self-care goes a long way, but collective care leads to even deeper healing. Reaching out for help and maintaining existing social networks are two ways to find strength in connection. Whether confiding in friends and family or seeking professional support, creating a robust support system is key. Understanding and addressing these factors will empower women with knowledge and tools to effectively manage and recover from burnout.
Media Contact:
Name: Jolinda Johnson
Email: [email protected]
