Recovering Hope: A 5-Day Devotional on the Intersection of Race, Mental Health, and FaithExemplo

The road to mental health recovery necessitates responsibility. Those who have experienced mental health challenges know how vital it is to learn about their illnesses and develop the resources needed to promote and sustain good mental health. Similarly, it’s important for men and women who have experienced racial trauma to learn about their symptoms and develop healthy coping strategies to foster recovery and resilience.

As you can imagine, this process takes time and examination. Recounting traumatic experiences and identifying triggers, symptoms, and raw responses is demanding, but paramount to one’s health. Understanding symptoms and responses may lead to advocating for a healthier environment alongside others who do not recognize--or refuse to recognize--the harm they cause, removing oneself from a toxic environment, and a host of other changes needed in the healing process. While those who have been harmed have much to overcome, taking responsibility for one’s mental health is necessary for recovery from racial trauma, despite the denial or protest of others. Anyone who has experienced racial trauma is worthy of recovery and wholeness, peace and joy. 

The world may not affirm the identity and uplift the voice and place of minorities, but as individuals, we can. We know racism is not just an individual reality; it does not happen in a vacuum. It takes place in communities, and impacts institutions and social systems. In order for this to change, we all need to take on the responsibility of learning about racial injustice and developing resources that promote reconciliation and equality. Paul’s charge to the church of Philippi echoes this theme of responsibility. In Philippians 3:12-21, he exhorts believers to “press on,” “strain forward,” and “hold true.” Maintaining the status quo isn’t an option in the Kingdom. There’s only moving forward or falling backward. Collective care for others requires each and every one of us to acknowledge how we’ve perpetuated racially traumatic systems or events, and to dismantle racist ideology and practices while we advocate for racial reconciliation.

As you read these verses, consider whether the Holy Spirit may be calling you to take a step forward. Perhaps you can commit to learning more about racism, or racial trauma. Perhaps you can connect with others who are working towards reconciliation. Whether your step is big or small, know that Christ’s resurrection power is available to guide and sustain you.