Mental Wellness

Mental Wellness

At Strands of Faith, we believe in the power of transparency and sharing our personal journeys to destigmatize mental health. As the founder of Strands of Faith, I want to share my story to inspire others and provide hope to those facing similar struggles.

My Journey

Growing up in Jackson, MS, I was blessed with parents who loved and supported me unconditionally. However, my path was not without its challenges. I faced and overcame significant hurdles, including:
  • Molestation: This traumatic experience left deep scars, impacting my self-esteem and sense of safety.
  • Strabismus: Dealing with this condition affected my confidence, making me self-conscious about my appearance.
  • Low Confidence and Self-Worth: I struggled for years to believe in myself and recognize my value.
  • Verbal and Physical Abuse: Continuous abuse in relationships preyed on my vulnerabilities, further eroding my self-esteem.
  • Social Anxiety and Shyness: Trauma kept me in a shell, making social interactions daunting and often isolating.
At 39, I am still learning and growing, especially in the realm of communication. My experiences of feeling excluded fueled my desire to create Strands of Faith, a brand that welcomes everyone regardless of their background, appearance, or socioeconomic status. My motto is simple: "You can sit with us."

A Letter from the Past

There are many times when I wanted to go to my professor for help in my classes, but I just couldn’t muster the energy to talk to someone and have them looking at the wall trying to find out where I’m looking when in actuality I was really looking at them. I am a very shy and introverted person, but deep in my heart, I believe I am an extrovert who would love to help other people by sharing some of my life stories outside of the strabismus atmosphere. I also believe that this condition is possibly hindering me from making close friends, getting involved with the opposite sex, and most importantly becoming the dynamic motivational speaker that I desire to become on so many levels. Strabismus makes me feel like a waste of space on this earth. I do believe in God, and I know that all things work for the good according to those who love Him. This is the only thing that keeps my head above water most times. I feel invisible to the world.” -25 Year Old Ameka
This is a snippet from an email I wrote to my eye surgeon 14 years ago in 2010, explaining why I wanted to get eye surgery for my strabismus (crossed eyes). Despite feeling invisible and worthless, I was still trying to figure out a way to impact and help others.

A Journey of Faith

In the midst of my storms, I continued to hold onto my faith and my desire to make a positive impact. Today, I am a mother of four, a wife, and a business owner. My journey has not been easy, but my faith has been my anchor. I believe in the promise that “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.”

Creating Inclusivity

Strands of Faith is more than a brand; it’s a community. We embrace and support those who feel like outcasts, ensuring that no one ever has to sit alone. My propensity to be drawn to those who feel excluded is reflected in our brand’s mission and values. We are here to uplift, encourage, and provide a safe space for everyone.

Mental Wellness Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please know that help is available. Here are some resources that can provide support:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Your mental health is important and seeking help is a courageous step. Remember, you are not alone and there is always someone ready to listen and support you.

Final Thoughts

My journey with mental health has been a testament to resilience and the power of faith. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage others to seek help, embrace their uniqueness, and find strength in their struggles. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a world where everyone feels valued and included.