“When we speak we are afraid our words will not be heard or welcomed. But when we are silent, we are still afraid. So it is better to speak.” – Audre Lorde
Stress is part of life, and some stress is even beneficial. Yet, dangerous levels of stress, particularly when we remain in the “fight or flight” high hormonal stage, can be dangerous and deadly.
Weathering is a term to describe the disproportionate stress that Black women endure in America. Recently, the term “weathering” has been used to explore the way that stress disproportionately impacts Black women. From poorer health outcomes to higher morbidity rates, this phenomenon is currently a crisis. Black women have been taught that we are exceptionally strong.

We ofen feel we are carrying the weight of the world, shouldering problems for our immediate families, care for aging parents, and leadership within our churches. We notoriously “do more with less.” The Misogynoir to Mishpat Research Network is seeking to find ways to strengthen African descended women, not only to amplify our voices, but to strengthen ourselves in body, mind and spirit.
Learn more by listening to the podcast, “This Racism is Killing Me Inside.”
Check out this Podcast: This Racism Is Killing Me Inside https://player.fm/1BVJyXA
If you are experiencing stress that is interfering with your life, causing physical problems or creating constant anxiety, please speak with someone you trust, talk with your General Practitioner or even a trusted clergy member.
In addition, here are resources in the UK:
- Talk to Samaritans. …
- Shout Crisis Text Line. (free 24/7 mental health support)
- Rethink Mental Illness. …
- Mind. …
- CALM Helpline and webchat. …
- National Health Insurance (NHS).
The Misogynoir to Mishpat (M2M) Research Network © 2023