Today we’d like to introduce you to Alycia C. Banks.
Hi Alycia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When asked to describe my story in one word, the first thing that comes to mind is “triumphant!” My story is still being written, still unfolding, and still evolving. The core of my life’s mission began with my beloved father. I have the most vivid memories of him, and his influence has been profound. At the age of ten, I experienced an incredible loss that shaped and molded me into who I am today. The days leading up to this loss are blurry, but the exact day remains vividly clear. Little did I know that this event would alter the trajectory of my life and give me a newfound purpose.
After my father’s passing, I went through many highs and lows. These experiences were incredibly challenging and often felt like a never-ending battle. During my adolescence and early twenties, I struggled with severe depression and anxiety. I internalized my emotions, unable to process them, until one day, everything changed. As a new mother attempting to return to college to advance my career, I had my first panic attack. This experience forced me to confront a new diagnosis: Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Before this, I had no understanding of anxiety. This diagnosis brought uncertainty and fear.
I am a Florida native with roots extending to California, but my ancestry traces back to Africa. I was raised in a traditional Black household, where an unspoken rule dictated that “what goes on in my house stays in my house.” This made it extremely difficult to share my struggles openly and vulnerably. Like many Black families, my family had a strong matriarch who led the home. For us, it was my mother, who, as a single parent of three, was unshakeable. In contrast, I was sensitive by nature, and everything affected me deeply, leaving me to grieve with no one to turn to.
In 2018, I founded Black Girls Heal Too. Black Girls Heal Too, Inc. is an organization that acknowledges and addresses mental health challenges within the Black community, specifically among women. Our mission is to raise awareness, provide resources, and foster a supportive sisterhood. Since our inception, we have built a solid social media presence, particularly on Instagram. We have hosted meetups, organized trips, participated in photo shoots, and supported each other through various challenges. We have made mental health a visible and vital topic of conversation. My journey has been filled with trials and triumphs, but I have found my purpose in helping others heal and grow through it all.
Black Girls Heal Too Oath:
To uplift, encourage, and support each other in the name of sisterhood. To practice confidentiality and provide a safe space in an effort to heal, progress, and advance the awareness of mental health and how it affects the black community.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Balancing the responsibilities of being a single mother of two while facilitating Black Girls Heal Too has presented its unique challenges. Here are some ways this dual role impacts my life: time management, financial pressure, limited personal time, support system, guilt, and sacrifice. Despite these challenges, my passion for Black Girls Heal Too, and my love for my children drive me forward. I’ve learned to navigate this complex balancing act through resilience, determination, and a deep belief in the importance of my work. The journey is undoubtedly challenging, but the rewards of seeing both my children thrive and the positive impact of Black Girls Heal Too in the community make it all worthwhile.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We are always open to fostering community to all who may need it. Please connect with us!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @blackgirlshealtoo
- Facebook: Black Girls Heal Too
- Twitter: @heal_too
- Other: blackgirlshealtoo@gmail.com
Image Credits
Ray Alvarez, ShootWithRay on Instagram, Archie Taylor Archixart on Instagram
