Q&A with Dr. Calisha Brooks

Dr. Calisha Brooks is a leading expert in Black mental health, dedicated to dismantling racial barriers in healthcare. With a Ph.D. in Psychology and extensive clinical experience, she develops innovative programs and initiatives to foster mental wellness in underserved communities.

In our latest interview at Edith’s Blog Nest, we chat with Dr. Calisha Brooks who is at the forefront of transforming mental health care for Black communities. Her insights offer invaluable guidance on the path towards greater mental wellness.

Q: Mental health stigma can be particularly strong within communities of color. What advice can you offer to those who may be hesitant to seek help for mental health challenges?

My advice is directed towards the community as a whole. Education breaks down barriers and addresses stigma. Many communities of color have a distrust for systems due to historical trauma which have used oppression and deception. So we have to educate individuals on what mental health looks like within our communities, simplify action steps for individuals while also providing effective, accessible, and affordable resources. People want the help, but is the help available? That’s the bigger question.

Q: Black women in the US face significant disparities in maternal health outcomes. How can mental and emotional well-being contribute to improving black maternal health?

Health is holistic. Mental, emotional, and physical are all connected, and when one’s mental and emotional well-being is healthy, the body releases chemical/hormonal cocktails that nourishes vital organs. Yet, the same can be said for stress. When chronic stress is present, which is historically prevalent for Black women due to racism, discrimination, economic disadvantages etc, the body releases toxins which contribute to poor maternal health outcomes. So the issue should be addressed as a whole. 

Q: In your role as a therapist and advocate for social justice, you've emphasized the importance of "showing up as human beings" and understanding lived experiences. How can you incorporate this approach into guidance for Edith Institute to help foster empathy and understanding among hospital staff regarding the challenges faced by black mothers?

When you speak from the heart; you reach the heart. That heart is communicated within every workshop, seminar, training, panel discussion,,etc. I show up human and connect with people from that space, and teach people how to also show up and connect. Love, joy, suffering, and pain are all universal languages. Barriers are broken when we understand this truth and start to see ourselves or our loved ones in other peoples stories.

 Q: As a Black mother is there anything you want to share about your own birth experience?

I had a beautiful birth experience. And was very intentional about writing my vision, visualizing it, and speaking blessings over myself and my baby everyday. I understood the facts of being a Black mother, but I designed my own TRUTH. I would encourage others to do the same.

Q: Reflecting on your entire pregnancy and childbirth experience, what is one message you would want to share with other Black mothers, healthcare providers, or policymakers about improving Black maternal health outcomes?

Black mothers: you are the experts of you and your body. Learn your body, listen it to and use your voice to speak your truth. Trust your instincts.

Professionals: Listen to Black women, we teach you how to care for us. Include our voices and experiences in research, policy, and practices. Be collaborators, not dictators. 

Learn more about Dr. Brooks vital work and follow her ongoing mission to help individuals live a life full of healing, hope and wholeness.