The power of being seen: black women’s mental health and the unexpected benefits of research participation

Racism and sexism adversely affect the mental health of Black women in the U.S. leading to worse outcomes than their White counterparts. This study presents perspectives from a demographically diverse sample of 2,631 Black women who participated in an electronic survey designed to explore their experiences during the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and anti-Black racism. Using a qualitative lens and thematic analysis of the survey’s last question, the results detailed how participants reported fear, anxiety, and stress, while coping through prayer, meditation, and social support. The findings of this research highlight the importance of research as a social work intervention to validate Black women’s experiences while engaging them in research studies and normalizing their involvement. By holding a space for Black women’s narratives and acknowledging their realities, research can empower and validate Black women beyond mere data collection.