Adjunct Professor Tamieka Welsh Champions Mental Health and Healing for Black Women in Essence Magazine

Adjunct Professor Tamieka Welsh, a member of the Howard University School of Social Work adjunct faculty, was recently featured in Essence Magazine for her article titled, “5 Powerful Ways Black Women Can Protect Their Mental Health After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis.” In this piece, Professor Welsh explores the intersection of mental health, community, and Black women’s well-being, offering practical guidance for navigating the emotional toll of breast cancer while centering cultural identity, support, and healing.

Professor Welsh highlights that when Black women receive a breast cancer diagnosis, the healing journey extends well beyond the physical body. She points to research showing that roughly 40% of Black breast cancer survivors experience clinically significant anxiety and 20% report depression following diagnosis. The article notes that these challenges are compounded by systemic barriers such as delayed diagnoses, higher mortality rates, and the limited access to culturally competent care.

In her article, Welsh shares five strategies, with insights from assistant attending psychiatrist Monique C. James, MD, designed to empower Black women to prioritize mental health as an essential part of recovery. Professor Welsh and Dr. James emphasizes the importance of building a care team that listens, respects, and validates one’s experience—reminding readers that therapy is not just for crisis, but for self-advocacy, clarity, and empowerment. She also encourages leaning into trusted community networks, whether family, friends, faith groups, or sister circles, to counter isolation. The article challenges the “Strong Black Woman” narrative, as Dr. James quotes, "

Many Black women have internalized the idea that we must always be “the strong one.”  It’s possible to unlearn this mindset.”..... Imagine a beloved ancestor telling you, ‘Let go. It’s okay. Say yes.’” Softness is not weakness; it’s a form of healing.- Monique C. James, MD, Assistant Attending Psychiatrist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

For those facing barriers to accessing therapy, a few resources are named such as The Sisters Network, For the Breast of Us, and Therapy for Black Girls. It is noted that these organizations play a vital role in bridging gaps in care by offering culturally affirming spaces for connection, counseling, and advocacy.

Professor Welsh’s coverage of this important topic resonates with the mission of the Howard University School of Social Work—to advance culturally responsive practice and affirm the strength of the Black community. Her message tells us that wellness is a collective journey that begins with understanding the lived experiences of those most affected by systemic inequities.

Professor Tamieka Welsh's voice in Essence not only amplifies a crucial conversation around the mental health of Black women but also exemplifies the kind of scholarship and advocacy that Howard University fosters. We thank Professor Welsh for inspiring empathy and the reminder that healing is most powerful when rooted in community and truth.

Read full article- Caring For Your Mind After A Breast Cancer Diagnosis | Essence