Public health in our community takes diverse forms, whether by bystander advocacy or direct engagement. Any involvement benefits all. In 2023, we authored numerous articles promoting Black community health. Based on the articles written, here are ways to further elevate public health in 2024 and beyond. Feel free to click on the BOLD words, leading to its corresponding article.
- Donate Blood. Donating blood can directly save lives within the Black community by providing crucial support for individuals in need, addressing specific blood type needs, and increasing diversity in blood donations for better health outcomes.
- Healthy Weight. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of various health conditions prevalent among Black communities, such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, fostering better overall health and well-being.
- Seek Therapy. Therapy provides a safe space for Black individuals to address mental health challenges, navigate systemic issues, and heal from racial trauma, promoting emotional resilience and overall well-being.
- Become a Better Patient. Becoming informed, proactive patients helps Black individuals navigate healthcare disparities, ensuring better communication with providers, improved treatment outcomes, and access to quality care.
- Develop a healthier online social image. A healthy online image can positively impact professional opportunities, relationships, and mental well-being, shaping perceptions and building trust in both personal and professional spheres.
- Learn about healthier safe sex practices. Dismissing safe sex myths promotes accurate knowledge, leading to informed decisions that effectively prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies, ensuring better sexual health and well-being.
- Take the Flu Shot/Vaccine. Black individuals should consider taking the flu shot as it helps protect against severe flu-related complications, especially important due to higher risks within the community, ensuring better health and reducing hospitalization rates.
- Spiritual Health. Prioritizing spiritual health can provide Black individuals with resilience, inner strength, and a sense of purpose, aiding in coping with adversity, fostering mental well-being, and nurturing a balanced life perspective.
Thank you for your ongoing support in reading and sharing our articles. Our primary aim is to continually educate on topics crucial to our community. We’re open to new subjects—comment on our articles and suggest topics. Finally, remember our mental health intertwines with physical health, forming a connected balance between the two. Wishing you a safe and joyful 2024 from the Elevate Black Health team!
