WHY EUSTRESSIN'?: ARRON MULLER
As the founder of the Black Kings Need Therapy Too movement, Arron know how important it is for us to address our mental health. I had the pleasure of connecting with Arron via the internet and we made sure we connected while in New York. It was honor to how he adds Eustress to his life. Check it out!
HEY ARRON, WHY EUSTRESSIN’?
WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING/ HOW LONG?
I have been working in the Social Services field for over 12 years and as a Social Worker for 7 years.
DO YOU EVER THINK ABOUT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH IN YOUR PROFESSION?
My own mental health is always a focus in order to be present for my family and to provide appropriate treatment to my clients. If I am not well then I will be ineffective as a Therapist.
WHAT UNIQUE CHALLENGES DO YOU ENCOUNTER SPECIFICALLY FOR YOUR JOB THAT HAS AN IMPACT ON YOUR MENTAL HEALTH THAT OTHERS MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT?
As a social worker working with children in schools when you process their experiences, it can take a toll. Despite their inspirational resilience, they face insurmountable challenges each and every day. From extreme poverty and homelessness, to various forms of trauma. Working with the children really makes you appreciate your upbringing but I also feel helpless that I am limited in the support I can provide.
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU SHOULD ALSO CONSIDER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH WHEN TAKING ON DAY-TO-DAY ACTIVITIES?
Considering my mental health when taking on day to day activities was really emphasized when I became a husband, father and business owner.
HOW DO YOU MANAGE THOSE STRESSORS ON A DAY-TO-DAY BASIS?
I manage stressors daily by praying and my family is a huge support.
HOW DOES BEING MENTALLY HEALTHY HELP YOU IN YOUR FIELD OF WORK OR ON THE JOB?
Using my self care strategies as often as possible allows me to be emotionally present to provide support to my students as a School asocial Worker and at my private practice. In the helping profession, you must take care of yourself first.
WHAT DOES EUSTRESS LOOK LIKE FOR YOU AT WORK? AT HOME/AWAY FROM WORK?
At work taking breaks when necessary, using calming apps or music helps me to get through the day. At home after working a full day, I leave the television off, limit light usage and play music to unwind.
WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD TELL SOMEONE JUST STARTING IN YOUR PROFESSION OR A YOUNG PERSON WHO ASPIRES TO BE THE PROFESSIONAL THAT YOU ARE?
My suggestion is to be aware of your stress capacity. Stress is guaranteed in life but we all have our limits. Be mindful and don’t feel afraid to take a step back and breathe for a moment.
ANY OTHER INFORMATION YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOU AND WHAT YOU’RE UP TO?
My passion is to normalize mental challenges and encourage those that are in need to be able to do so without feeling stigmatized. I conduct workshops and speaking engagements spreading the word about the benefits of mental health services. The Black Kings Need Therapy Too movement is to encourage Black Men that they can also seek therapy like other races do. Black men are least likely to seek services despite the myriad of stressors faced on a daily basis.
HOW CAN PEOPLE CONTACT YOU FOR MORE INFORMATION?
Instagram:
theblack_therapist
Email:
AMullerLMSW@gmail.com
