MErald.io

We are so excited about our fellowship and to move into our next phase!

As we approach the end of another incredible year, we wanted to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support. We’ve enjoyed meeting you this year, building Merald.io and the opportunity to learn from a community of big thinkers.  In the spirit of the holiday season, we've decided to shut down for the rest of the year to recharge, reflect, and celebrate with our loved ones.This pause allows us to rejuvenate (which is beyond overdue) and come back in 2024 with even more energy, creativity, and exciting updates for you. During this break, we encourage you to cherish the moments with your family and friends, indulge in some self-care, and savor the magic of the holiday season.  Thank you for being an integral part of the Merald.io family. We can't wait to continue our adventure together in the coming year!

As we approach the end of the year, it's the perfect time to take a moment and look back at the incredible journey we've all been on. Take a deep breath, and let's celebrate the victories, big and small, that have shaped our paths. Celebrate the struggles you've told no one about, and take a moment to give yourself credit for the progress. #yearinreview #blackmentalhealth #striving #startupstory

Friendly reminders to cope with difficult relatives during the holidays; 1: Decide in advance how you might respond. 2: Manage your expectations. 3: Set a time limit on your visits. 4: Plan creative activities to do with your family. 5: Avoid controversial topics. 6: Avoid overindulgence. 7: have compassion for yourself. 8: Do not be afraid to say NO. #thanksgiving2023 #copingstrategies #blackmentalhealth

Unplug and Disconnect: In today's digital age, we're constantly connected to our devices. Take this day as a chance to unplug and disconnect from the constant stream of information. Put away your phone, turn off your computer, and experience the freedom of being present in the moment. Unplugging allows us to reclaim our most precious resources: time and attention. By stepping away from the constant stream of notifications and social media updates, we create space for deeper thinking, creative expression, and genuine human connection.

Living with social anxiety can be a challenging and isolating experience. It's essential to recognize that you're not alone in your struggle, and there are ways to manage and even overcome the barriers it creates in your daily life. Let's explore some helpful tips for self-care when dealing with social anxiety. * Understand Your Anxiety: The first step in managing social anxiety is to understand it. Educate yourself about the condition and its triggers. Knowledge is empowering, and it can help you identify and address your specific challenges. * Practice Deep Breathing: Deep, slow breaths can help calm your nervous system. When you feel anxious, focus on your breath—inhale for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. This simple technique can reduce the intensity of anxiety symptoms. * Challenge Negative Thoughts: Social anxiety often feeds on negative self-talk. Challenge those thoughts by asking yourself if they're based on reality or irrational fears. Try to replace them with more positive and realistic beliefs about yourself and social situations. * Gradual Exposure: Avoidance can make social anxiety worse. Gradually expose yourself to social situations that trigger your anxiety. Start with smaller, less intimidating scenarios, and work your way up. Over time, this can help desensitize you to the anxiety triggers. * Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to a therapist, counselor, or support group. Professional help can provide you with strategies to manage your anxiety and offer a safe space to talk about your experiences. * Medication: In some cases, medication prescribed by a psychiatrist may be necessary. Consult a doctor to discuss the potential benefits of medication for your social anxiety. #social #anxiety #blackmentalhealth

Today is Black Entrepreneurs Day! We wanted to take some time to highlight some of our favorite entrepreneurs, doing amazing things for our community and the world. We hope their vision and continued impact inspires the next generation of big thinkers and doers! Happy Black Entrepreneurs day from Merald.io Shianne Nevers Nia Lee Louis Byrd Arlene Byrd Christy Felix Prudence Harris-Minton, Ed.D. #blackexcellence #blackentrepreneurs #tech #changemakers

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is more than just everyday worries. GAD is characterized by excessive and persistent anxiety and worry about a wide range of life's aspects, often without any specific cause. These concerns can be overwhelming and disrupt daily life. Common symptoms of GAD include restlessness, muscle tension, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. It's a real challenge, but it's essential to know that help is available. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it's crucial to reach out to a mental health professional for guidance and support. #blackmentalhealthmatters #blackcounselors #therapy #mentalhealthcare

One of the skills I have had to revisit this year was processing disappointment. Processing disappointment can be a challenging but essential aspect of emotional resilience. The first step is to acknowledge and validate your feelings. It's okay to feel disappointed; it's a natural human response to unmet expectations. Next, take some time to reflect on the situation and what led to your disappointment. This self-awareness can help you gain insight and identify areas for personal growth. It's also crucial to avoid self-blame and practice self-compassion. Remember that disappointments are a part of life for everyone. Share your feelings with people you trust, and lean on their understanding. Additionally, consider setting a new plan in motion and working towards new goals for the future. Finally, focus on the lessons you can learn from the experience and use them to move forward positively, with renewed determination and resilience. #blackmentalhealth #lifecoach #mindset #resilience