Today we’d like to introduce you to Tawana Farley.
Hi Tawana, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Mama Mental was started in October of 2020 as an online mental health blog to share my journey of being a mental health advocate and to offer resources and support to families struggling with mental health issues. I wanted families and those struggling to know they were not alone because so many people feel ashamed, stigmatized, and just lost when it comes to mental health. Just two years prior, I was one of those people when my spouse was diagnosed with a mental illness, and it was life-changing for both of us. I realized quick that there were a ton of resources for him, but there were very little for me. I had to do my research and learn how to effectively advocate not only for my spouse but for me as a caretaker. The blog was a way for me to share what I learned and to reach that mental health community that needed it the most. It soon evolved into a page of inspiration and hope for others as I continued to share my journey, insight, and encouragement.
As my blog continued to grow, I was also advocating in my community by volunteering through NAMI, The National Alliance of Mental Illness. Through them, I became a trained facilitator and teacher so that I could start an active family support group in my area and offer mental health classes for families wanting deeper understanding. This impacted me so much that I went back to school and now I am currently a second year Grad student pursuing my Master’s in Clinical Counseling with a specialization in Crisis & Trauma.
In May of 2021, I expanded my online platform into a website where I added mental health awareness apparel. These items helped further my mission to spread awareness and resources in unique ways, allowing people to join in on my journey of advocacy and break the stigma. As of today, I have shipped apparel all over the United States and to several military bases overseas! My goal is to continue growing Mama Mental and to transform it into a non-profit that provides families assistance in therapy services, medical bills, and medication.
If more people understood the healing within their stories, maybe more people would be willing to share their truths. Until then, I’m glad to be a vessel and share mine.
For God does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called. – 1 Corinthians 1:27-29
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Getting to this point in my life and business has been a rollercoaster to say the least, but it has also been beautiful to watch myself and loved ones evolve. It still blows my mind with how many people reach out to me to share their stories or thank me for my blog and shirts. With me speaking up, it has opened the door for others to speak their truth as well. I know I am walking in my purpose and that there are doors that only I will be able to open due to my experiences. Knowing this helps me start with empathy and lead with grace no matter the obstacles that come my way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Mama Mental is a company that offers support, resources, and merchandise tailored around mental health awareness. We are known for our blog, partnerships with mental health organizations, and one of a kind apparel that spread messages of hope. What sets Mama Mental apart from others is the owner’s ability to connect and understand her audience from a personal level. We are proud of how bold our approach is when spreading awareness and how some of our messages are thought-provoking, creating needed conversations in our communities. We are growing every day and extremely thankful for everyone who continues to join us in changing the narrative around mental health.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
There are several apps, books, and resources that I use and follow to stay in tune with the work I do.
NAMI is a huge resource due to the classes I teach and the valuable information they provide on mental illness. You can find info on local support groups in your area by visiting www.nami.org.
“I Am Not Sick, I Do Not Need Help” by Dr. Xavier Amador is great for families to understand the lack of insight that comes with mental illness.
“Set Boundaries, Find Peace” by Nedra Tawwab is great to help you start implementing steps on creating boundaries for your own mental wellness.
Communication Workshops with Julie Fast, an author that specializes in communication techniques for loved ones caring for family members that have mental health issues. You can view her upcoming classes at www.juliefast.com.
The Calm App- great grounding app for when feeling anxious, restless, and/or depressed.
Contact Info:
- Email: farleytawana@mamamental.com
- Website: www.mamamental.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/themamamental
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/mamamental
- Other: https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdBaouae/
Image Credits:
*Photographer: Pentaxx Guy @pentaxxguy *Makeup: Crystal Williams Hand @chrisstylez_mua_
