ADIINE is rooted in wellness.

we believe that health is beauty so every month, we shine a spotlight on the health disparities that disproportionately affect Black women and advocate for better alternatives.

APRIL: STRESS AWARENESS MONTH

Black women are twice as likely to experience major depression as men but only half as likely to seek care due to cultural stigma, lack of access to culturally competent providers, and discrimination. Societal pressures to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards and hair discrimination rooted in systemic racism further harm emotional well-being, while underrepresentation in media reinforces feelings of inadequacy.

As hair plays a significant role in identity and self-expression, negative experiences related to hair can deeply impact mental health, making positive hair experiences vital for emotional wellness.

  • Therapy for Black Girls

    They provide accessible mental health resources and connects Black women with culturally competent therapists.

    Addressing the stigma surrounding therapy and mental health in Black communities, they offer a safe space for Black women to seek help.

    learn more 
  • The Loveland Foundation

    They offer financial assistance for therapy to Black women and girls.

    By reducing financial barriers, they empower Black women to prioritize their mental health.

    learn more 
  • Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM)

    Aims to remove the barriers that Black people experience in accessing or staying connected with emotional health care and healing. They work towards building a world where there are no barriers to Black healing.

    learn more 
1 of 3

you but balanced

podcast recs

Affirmations for Black Girls* - listen on apple podcasts | listen on spotify

Being Made Whole* - listen on apple podcasts | listen on spotify

Blessed + Bossed Up* - listen on apple podcasts | listen on spotify

Brown Girl Self-Care - listen on apple podcasts | listen on spotify

She's So Lucky (formerly Balanced Black Girl) - listen on apple podcasts | listen on spotify

Therapy for Black Girls - listen on apple podcasts | listen on spotify

*Christian based

things you can do

check in with yourself - taking a moment to assess your feelings and mental state helps you identify stressors and address them proactively.

journal - journaling helps process emotions, release tension, and organize thoughts. check out the Inside Then Out journals!

read a book - reading provides an escape from daily stress and allows your mind to unwind by focusing on a different world or perspective. a feel-good novel or self-help book can uplift your mood and offer inspiration.

prioritize sleep - sleep is essential for restoring your body and mind, reducing cortisol levels, and boosting resilience to stress. getting 7-9 hours of sleep improves mood and energy, making it easier to tackle challenges.

creative outlets - engaging in creativity lets you express yourself and channel stress into something productive. try painting, cooking, baking or crafting!

yoga or meditation - these practices calm the mind, reduce physical tension, and help you stay grounded. just 10 minutes of yoga or meditation daily can improve focus and help you handle stress with greater clarity.

spend time in nature - being outdoors soothes the mind and boosts mood by connecting you to the natural world. a walk in the park or sitting by a lake can provide peace and a renewed sense of balance.

internal health

chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can disrupt digestion, weaken the immune system and contribute to inflammation.

these foods help regulate cortisol, promote relaxation, and support gut health:

dark chocolate – contains flavonoids that lower cortisol and boost mood.

berries – rich in antioxidants that combat stress-induced inflammation.

nuts & seeds (almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds) – packed with omega-3s and magnesium, which help lower cortisol levels.

oats – a slow-releasing carbohydrate that promotes serotonin production.

leafy greens (spinach, kale, Swiss chard) – high in magnesium, known for relaxation.

avocados – full of B vitamins that support the nervous system.

turmeric – reduces inflammation and supports brain function.

green tea & matcha – contains L-theanine, which promotes calmness.

hibiscus tea (foléré!) – lowers blood pressure and has adaptogenic properties.

chamomile & lavender tea – soothing, great for relaxation and sleep.

coconut water – naturally hydrating and full of electrolytes that help regulate stress responses.