PSYCHOLOGISTS 4 BLACK LIVES

Psychologists for Black Lives is a graduate student-run organization that is committed to highlighting issues of mental health and racism specific to the Black community. Our organization is comprised of mental health students and professionals within the United States who are passionate about antiracist policy and quality mental health care.

 

We aim to provide relevant information to the public, and to hold ourselves and others accountable in the fight for antiracist change. In working in the field of mental health, many of us are constantly considering the nuances of the various lived experiences our clients share with us. We hope to better understand the cultural variables, dynamic histories, and oppressions that negatively impact mental wellness.

 

In today’s society, it has become macabrely commonplace for us to hear about systemic oppressions that contribute to the loss of Black lives. The deaths of Black individuals at the hands of police officials who are sworn to protect and serve affect the families of victims immeasurably. The wider community of Black individuals is also affected and ultimately, repeat exposure to race-induced trauma without a course of accountability, justice, or change will have widespread impact on society. These injustices subvert the possibility of equal opportunities, sound mental health, and overall safety of  Black people during police encounters.

 

As mental health clinicians and clinicians-in-training, we are passionately committed to bringing attention to these issues. We aim to do this through our voices, our writing, and social media outreach, as well as through community engagement. We cannot, and will not remain silent. We welcome your feedback and encourage your active participation as we embark on this journey and mobilize this critical cause.