Many of these deaths have been captured on camera.
And were tired of constantly dealing with the physiological effects of this trauma.
AsSELF previously reported, experts can calculate a persons allostatic load with various lab tests.
Marina Esmeraldo
This concept is also known as weathering.
The signs of weathering can be emotional, physical, and behavioral, says Affuso.
When an individual faces repeated or chronic exposure to stress, it can result in a higher allostatic load.
One consequence of this increased stress is higher cortisol levels from being in a constant state of fight-or-flight.
Addressing the factors that contribute to weathering will require systemic changes.
In the meantime, Black people are overdue for someradical self-care.
We asked the experts for their suggestions for alleviating that undue burden, in both big and small ways.
One way to counteract stress is through a regular exercise routine, explains Affuso.
Even short bouts of activity can improve symptoms of stress.
However, it is important to recognize that individuals may need therapy as well, says Affuso.
That and social support, plus policy and environmental changes that decrease cultural and institutional racism.
SELF also recently compiled alist of mental health resources specifically for Black people.
That therapy, according to psychologistAfiya Mbilishaka, Ph.D., may be trauma-focused.
It underscores the political activism of Black hair-care spaces and community connection to hair-care professionals.
Safe storytelling and reprocessing can disrupt the negative cycles of trauma.
For some, experiencing trauma can have lasting and debilitating effects.
Another useful tool that should not be discounted isdisconnecting.
No one is obligated to consume traumatic news or watch viral videos.
Being intentional about media consumption is often required after seeing and hearing about trauma.
This is even more important when activism becomes both mentally and physically draining.
Mbilishaka wants them to safeguard their mental health as well.
Many Black people are steering clear of protests and racial discussions for their mental and emotional health.
This is how allies can show up.
This includes reading, spending money, andredirecting their families and friends.
This redirection could lead to loss of relationships.
But it could also lead to productive conversations and, ideally, change.
Black people have been weathering racism since the creation of this very nation.
