The Unseen Struggle: When Depression Looks Different for Black Women

As a holistic wellness practitioner and a black woman, I understand that depression can manifest differently in black women than the typical symptoms we often hear about. The experience of depression is not a one-size-fits-all, which is why I take a personalised, culturally-aware approach when working with my clients.

A recent study from NYU and Columbia University found that black women with depressive symptoms more commonly reported sleep disturbances, self-criticism, irritability, fatigue, and loss of libido rather than feelings of sadness or hopelessness. This diverges from the stereotypical depressed mood that is often highlighted.

 Depression Screening May Miss the Signs

The researchers analysed data from 227 black women screened for depression as part of a larger study on high blood pressure risk factors. Their findings suggest that standard depression screening tools may not adequately capture the way depression shows up for many black women. This could lead to underdiagnosis and lack of proper treatment.

As the study's lead author Nicole Perez states, "The findings demonstrate the heterogeneity in depression symptoms and need for screening tools that account for variation across populations." In other words, a one-size-fits-all approach to diagnosing depression falls short.

A Holistic, Culturally-Aware Approach

That's why in my practice, I take an individualised, holistic approach that explores each client's unique experience, circumstances, and cultural context. Instead of simply going through a checklist of symptoms, I have open discussions to understand how depression is showing up specifically for them.

For my black female clients, I'm attuned to somatic complaints like fatigue, sleep issues, and low libido as potential signs of depression. I also watch for irritability and harsh self-criticism, which can manifest as feelings of self-hate or self-blame.

Using Solution-Based Counselling

One key method I use is solution-based counselling, which helps clients identify their existing strengths, resources, and abilities to develop solutions for overcoming challenges like depression. Rather than dwelling on past problems, we collaboratively construct a vision for a preferred future and take small, manageable steps to get there.

The solution-focused approach empowers clients to be the experts in their own lives and draw upon their resilience. For black women dealing with racial stressors and trauma on top of depression, this can be an especially powerful way to reclaim their narratives and innate wisdom.

Energy Psychology Techniques  

I also integrate energy psychology tools like visualisation and Ho'oponopono, an ancient Hawaiian practice of reconciliation and forgiveness. Ho'oponopono was very helpful for my own healing process. It allowed me to understand that I am the designer of my own life. This was an extremely powerful realisation for me as a simple woman.

With visualisation, a client imagines their desired positive state, like feeling rested, confident, and peaceful. Doing this energetic "rehearsal" can rewire thought patterns and shift one's emotional experience over time.

Ho'oponopono uses a mantra of "I'm sorry, please forgive me, thank you, I love you" - first to oneself, then extending it outward. This promotes self-love, letting go of negativity, and making peace within and with others. It cultivates an energy flow of forgiveness, gratitude, and compassion.  

By combining solution-focused counselling with mind-body techniques like these, I help my clients peel back layers of depression and tap into their own inner resources for healing.

Depression doesn't have to be a one-size-fits-all experience. As a holistic practitioner with lived experience in the black community, I'm honoured to provide a safe space for my clients' unique journeys and empower them with personalised tools for transformation.

Time to feel better 

If you're a black woman experiencing depression differently, I invite you to reach out. Together, we'll craft a personalised, culturally-grounded healing journey using holistic methods.

Connect with me at my website  or  email alicia@aliciawomensholisticwellness.com to begin transforming your experience of depression, your way.. Take the first step to healing today.

Alicia x

"Nurture Your Whole Self"