AAFS recognized Minority Mental Health Awareness Month in July with a presentation by Dr. Leticia Villarr on Mental Health Awareness in the Arab American Community. Dr. Villarr discussed challenges Arab Americans face due to racism and discrimination, an invisible or hyper-visible identity, and the tremendous trauma created by the war in Gaza. Click here to view Dr. Villarr’s video on Facebook.
Dr. Villarr offered helpful solutions for protecting mental health, including:
- Limiting social media and avoiding consuming news before bed
- Engaging children in age-appropriate conversations
- Working to calm your nervous system, like deep breathing, walking, talking to a trusted person, helping others, or taking political action
- Doing joy-filled activities and noticing your thought-patterns
Remember, you are never alone! If you need help, reach out to a trusted friend or family member. And you can always call AAFS at: (708) 599-2237 or stop by the office.