Guest Contributor: Bri’Ann Stephens
Speaker, You Talk Too Much
What does Black Mental Wellness mean to you?
Black Mental Wellness means that, as a black person, it is vital that I strengthen my mind as well as other aspects of my body. For many years, black people have been taught that our bodies are the most valuable part of us-- that if our bodies are well, then so are we. We then neglect the most important part of us, which is our minds. Our minds shape us at our core and are a key factor in our decision making. Just like anything you want to be successful at, you have to train. I believe Black Mental Wellness is about training your mind how to function properly in a way that works best for you, in a positive way.
How do you promote change and well-being in the Black community?
I am a transformative speaker, and my mission is to impact a generation of women to speak their raw truth and to walk in their purpose.
I am a 29-year-old Black woman who has struggled with depression and who has been addicted to a toxic lifestyle. Through prayer, mentors, purpose and sharing my story, I have been able to create a life that I do not want to escape from.
I have learned many things in regard to business, life, and relationships. My goal is to share my story and the story of others in order to motivate a generation of women to walk in their purpose.
What are some upcoming events you are leading, that promote mental health and wellness, that you would like for our Black Mental Wellness audience to know about?
I am premiering a new podcast called, "You Talk Too Much." The show where we talk about the things that people say you should not talk about; in life, relationships, and business.
My inspiration comes from being told that I talk too much. It’s taboo to talk about your personal business, financial business, family business, struggles, etc. From a young age I, like many women, was taught to hush. So now, I speak, and I speak fast, and I speak boldly. The things I was quiet about were the things I needed to discuss in order to heal and help others.
March 8, 2022, the podcast will be live. I will drop life-changing gems and create long-lasting relationships. I'll have my website up and running by March 1, 2022 (youtalktoomuch.co) (IG: YouTlkTooMuch).
Tell us about your educational and/or professional training, and current area of expertise related to mental health and wellness?
I am an expert at speaking and sharing my story when it relates to overcoming addiction, dealing with depression/suicidal thoughts, and positive self-talk (shaping the world around you with words). I've been able to speak at many in-person events and virtual events sharing my expertise.
What are some ways that you promote mental health and wellness through your area of expertise?
As a transformative speaker and full-time entrepreneur, the main two ways I promote mental health and wellness is by helping my audience reframe the way that they speak to themselves, about themselves, and to other people. The power of words would be my main focus. I am 100% sure that if a person changes the way that they speak, they can change their lives.
The second way I promote mental health and wellness, specifically with my digital branding company is through encouraging my clients to rest. What I have learned is that most times with entrepreneurs (new and existing) is that they do not give themselves breaks or times to process information. Many people compare themselves to others on social media, and I know that this contributes to this, "go, go, go" and "get it done NOW" mentality. So, when I am working with clients, I encourage breaks. I encourage creating lists and taking things one step at a time.
What are some things that we should know about your area of expertise?
Most of the things I've learned and have been successful at have been self-taught. I did not go to school to learn a lot of things, but I have learned through experience, and I believe that is the best teacher.
All of the tips, tools, and resources I give come from a place of wisdom, knowledge, experience, and proven results.
How can we encourage more people to seek mental health treatment?
Through channels like this. I believe people should hear about mental health in a more positive and serious light.
What are your recommendations for ending stigma in the Black community?
Sharing our stories. I know that if more black people were open and honest about their struggles, we could help a lot of people and end the stigma.
What wellness strategies do you think should be given more attention within the Black community? Are there any reasons why you think they are not given more attention?
The wellness strategy that I feel is the most important is changing the way we talk to ourselves and talk to others-- which is tied to what we watch on television and what we listen to on the radio. I think Black people use the worst words when it comes to talking about ourselves as women, men, etc. (especially in media). My strategy would be changing what we feed ourselves.
Guest Contributor
Bri’Ann Stephens is an energetic, non-stop working, fast-speaking, God-fearing, creative woman. Since 2016, she has hosted conferences and concerts centered around providing opportunities for women. In 2018, she was featured in Forbes for her women’s activism in Houston, Texas— sharing how she used her lowest moment as fuel. Using her platforms, she has been able to reach hundreds of women which led her to being recognized and honored by the city of Houston in 2019.
Her work doesn't stop with adult women, she has also mentored teen girls. She has been able to work with over 800 students in teaching them the importance of learning their weaknesses, discovering their talents, and developing their strengths.
Currently Bri’Ann Stephens is the owner of a digital branding company, Foundation First— a newly designed platform that provides opportunities for people to set a solid foundation in life and in business.
