Grief, an emotional response to loss, often becomes an uphill battle, especially when it involves the passing of someone deeply connected to us. Offset, a member of the renowned hip-hop trio Migos, recently delved into a candid conversation with Angela Yee on her podcast, “Way Up with Angela Yee,” shedding light on his ongoing struggle with the loss of his bandmate and cousin, Takeoff, who fell victim to gun violence in 2022.
In a poignant moment during the interview, Offset opened up about his daily struggles, revealing, “I cry every day. I lost my brother; I’m not healed, I’m not good. We’re stars, so people think we’re good. But, I’m a real human being. I’m dealing with personal sh*t, too.” This raw confession sparked a powerful dialogue on social media, questioning whether Black men are provided with the necessary space and support to navigate the complex emotions associated with grief and loss.
In response to Offset’s vulnerability, Instagram users and individuals from various walks of life echoed sentiments of understanding and support. The discussion transcended into a broader exploration of mental health within the Black community, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and addressing the emotional well-being of Black men.
As part of an effort to support readers seeking solace, we present a selection of Black-led therapy and mental health safe spaces, acknowledging that this list is by no means exhaustive:
Black Men Heal: An organization dedicated to offering free virtual and in-person therapy sessions to men of color, fostering a sense of community through group outings and meetups.
WalkGood LA: Founded by Eitienne Maurice, Marley Rae, and Ivy Coco, WalkGood LA provides a community for runners and yogis and hosts a healing circle called “YouGood?” specifically for Black men.
The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation: Initiated by actress Taraji P. Henson in honor of her father, this foundation provides free therapy and self-care resources to HBCU students, along with a comprehensive list of Black therapists nationwide.
TalkSpace: While not Black-owned, this online therapy platform offers convenient access to a range of therapists through text-based sessions, accommodating individual schedules.
Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM): A multifaceted community offering various mental health outlets, including yoga, therapy, art, and spiritual guidance, creating a comprehensive support network.
This conversation, sparked by Offset’s courageous openness, emphasizes the need for a more inclusive and supportive approach to mental health, particularly within the Black male community.
