Reclaiming Rest as a Black Professional and Student
Rest is essential for our well-being, yet hustle culture often makes it feel like a luxury. For Black professionals and students, systemic inequities, stigmatization and cultural pressures can make prioritizing rest especially difficult. This Black History Month theme for 2025 highlights reclaiming rest as a radical act to support the mental health of the Black community. At Crisis Text Line, we’re exploring how rest can be a form of resistance–and offering actionable ways to reclaim it. If you need support, text CONNECT to 741741 for free, 24/7, and confidential mental health care.
Understanding the Challenges Black Professionals and Students Face
- Systemic racism and discriminationSystemic racism and discrimination create barriers that take a significant toll on Black mental health. In workplaces, hiring biases and inequitable leadership opportunities increase stress, while academic settings often perpetuate isolation through microaggressions and lack of representation. These compounded stressors can contribute to burnout, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, emphasizing the need to address systemic inequities.
- The “strong Black woman/man” stereotype
The “strong Black woman” and “strong Black man” stereotypes often push Black individuals to ignore their own needs and avoid seeking mental health care. Cultural and societal pressures to “always be strong” can lead to feelings of guilt or failure when rest or help is needed.This expectation to bear burdens without complaint not only exacerbates mental health challenges but also discourages seeking support, further isolating those who may already feel overwhelmed. Breaking free from these stereotypes is essential for fostering healthier mindsets and encouraging access to mental health services. - The pressure to overperformBlack professionals and students often face intense pressure to overperform as a way to “prove” their worth in environments where they may feel underestimated and/or overlooked. This constant need to excel can lead to overworking, sacrificing rest, and neglecting mental health. Over time, this culture of overachievement can foster burnout, exhaustion, and higher rates of mental health challenges. Prioritizing rest and rejecting the expectation to always do more is vital for sustaining well-being and combating the harmful effects of overworking.
- Financial and time barriers
Financial constraints and packed schedules can make it difficult for Black adults, students, and professionals to prioritize restorative activities or seek mental health care. Limited access to affordable mental health services that are culturally tailored care adds to the challenge, leaving many without the support they need. The cost of therapy, lack of health insurance, and demanding responsibilities can create significant obstacles to well-being. At Crisis Text Line, we recognize these barriers and offer free, confidential support 24/7 – simply text CONNECT to 741741 to reach a trained volunteer Crisis Counselor.
Practical Ways to Reclaim Rest
- Set boundaries
Protect your time and energy by creating “no” zones–specific times or situations where you decline extra responsibilities. At work or school, this could mean setting limits on after-hours emails or study sessions. In your personal life, communicate your needs clearly, such as carving out quiet time for rest or saying no to plans when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Setting boundaries is an essential step toward prioritizing your well-being. - Develop restorative self-care practices
Incorporate self-care into your routine as a non-negotiable part of your day, even in small ways. Restorative activities like journaling, meditation, or taking a short walk can make a big difference. For more ideas, check out our 25 Self-Care Activities and Wellness Tips for 2025. Prioritizing self-care is a powerful way to reclaim rest and nurture your mental health. - Build a support system
Connecting with mentors, peers, and allies can help prioritize rest and well-being. Open conversations about exhaustion and mental health challenges faced by Black men, Black women, and Black students can foster mutual support. Talking openly about exhaustion and mental health is vital for breaking down stigma in the Black community. Follow @CrisisTextLine on Instagram to join the conversation and access resources, or join our Changemaker community to support other African Americans through difficult times. - Seek culturally tailored mental health support
Accessing culturally tailored care can make a significant difference in addressing mental health challenges. Our community partners Black Girls Smile, GirlTrek, and Black Men’s Health provide resources specific to the unique needs of Black individuals. For immediate and free support, text CONNECT to 741741 to reach one of our volunteer Crisis Counselors who understands the importance of cultural awareness and accountability within mental healthcare. - Celebrate small wins
Small steps toward prioritizing rest can lead to big improvements over time. Whether it’s carving out 10 minutes for yourself or saying no to an extra task, every effort matters. Celebrate the routines that bring you joy and peace–they’re milestones in reclaiming your well-being. Recognizing these wins reinforces the importance of rest in your daily life.
Rest is a right, not a luxury–and your well-being is essential, not optional. By prioritizing rest, you are reclaiming your time, energy, and peace in a world that often demands too much. Lean on community–friends, family, and allies–for encouragement and support as you take steps toward prioritizing yourself. Take small, intentional steps each day to incorporate rest into your life, celebrate your progress, and reach out for help when needed. If you ever need someone to talk to, text CONNECT to 741741. Our free and confidential service connects you with live volunteer Crisis Counselors who are ready to listen and provide support 24/7.