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Steel Allies Share About Their Mental Health Journeys During World Mental Health Month: Amber Sloan

Oct 29, 2021

October is World Mental Health Month. With our Organization-in-Residence, Steel Smiling, we’re highlighting some “Steel Allies” who champion mental health and wellness in their communities.

Amber Sloan is the Executive Director and Organizer of #MadeIt, a Motivational Speaker and an Elected Official at Allegheny County Democratic Committee. Amber goes above and beyond to serve the Homewood community. Her passion is helping people to create better lives and better communities, especially in the neighborhood she calls home – Homewood. She is authentic and genuine in her approach, meeting people where they are at and ensuring their voice is heard. Advocating for mental health is a huge part of her platform. Check out the Q&A below to learn more about her perspective!

What does Black mental health mean to you and for your life?

“What Black mental health means to me & my life NOW – it’s a way of life to me. It can be very dark in those moments of working through the process…while navigating through life tryna deal wit Black folks who’s not getting treatment for mental health…”

What does Black mental health mean in your community?

“In my commUNITY…there’s a huge stigma on mental health in my commUNITY. Like, you’re crazy & all that when in fact it’s not! So I’m the one going around in my commUNITY tryna tell people aboutt my healing process & it works for me…”

What would you say to someone just beginning their healing journey?

“My advice for anyone beginning their healing journey is to keep on working on it. I promise you it’s a journey of peace, confidence, etc. There will be some days that are harder than some but the outcome’s the best…Don’t allow anyone to tell you that you’re CRAZY when in fact you’re choosing a way of life that makes you deal wit the issues that makes you very well! Keep on fighting through and being a example to the people. Make those therapy appointments. You will feel & see the results eventually…You have to do the work it takes as well.”

There is a strong connection between individual and community mental health. Our deep partnership with Steel Smiling aims to illuminate and strengthen those links in order to empower communities and their residents.


About Steel Smiling:

Steel Smiling bridges the gap between Black people and mental health support through education, advocacy and awareness. Their 10 year vision is to connect with every Black person in Allegheny County to a positive mental health experience that improves their quality of life by 2030.

Top Header Image Photo Credit: Prototyping Larimer Stories by artist John Peña, photo by OPA