Commanding Our Joy: Standing Up for Black Women's Mental Health
In public health, "weathering" describes the physical, cellular, and emotional wear and tear caused by chronic exposure to systemic racism, discrimination, and societal pressure. For generations, Black women have been conditioned to wear the heavy armor of the "Strong Black Woman" archetype—often at the expense of their physical, mental, and emotional health.
In this episode, host Krysta Jones sits down with leading clinicians and researchers Dr. Isha Metzger and Dr. Angela Neal-Barnett to unpack Unweathered, a milestone resource guide from the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls. Together, they explore how Black women and girls can dismantle toxic stereotypes, establish firm boundaries, address racial trauma, and transition from mere survival to radical healing and joy.
Dr. Isha Metzger
Dr. Isha Metzger
Nationally Recognized Expert in Black Mental Health, Racial Trauma, and Culturally Responsive Care
Dr. Metzger’s research and clinical work focus on equipping youth, families, and communities with evidence-based strategies to navigate racial stress and foster healing.
Dr. Angela Neal-Barnett
Author, Researcher, and Director of the Program for Research on Anxiety and Affective Disorders (PRAAD)
Dr. Neal-Barnett is a leading authority on anxiety among African Americans and the author of the seminal book, Soothe Your Nerves: The Black Woman's Guide to Understanding and Overcoming Anxiety, Panic, and Fear.
