The economic recovery following the pandemic has been uneven and for Black women, the path back to stability has been particularly challenging. Recent data revealed that Black women experienced disproportionately high job losses in 2025—more than 300,000, according to The Root—a setback that extends far beyond financial strain. Experts are increasingly focused on the often-overlooked consequence of economic insecurity: the growing toll on mental health. The weight of job loss, coupled with the uncertainty of finding new employment, is creating a surge in stress, anxiety, and, for some, the beginnings of trauma.
The impact isn’t simply about replacing a paycheck. For many Black women, work is deeply intertwined with identity, legacy, and a sense of purpose. “We have always been told, as Black women, that education and our work would be our way out of difficulty,” explains Dr. LaNail R. Plummer, founder of Onyx Therapy Group and author of “The Essential Guide for Counseling Black Women.” “So when we get the education, the jobs, and the titles—doing all the things right—and still feel penalized, it makes us question our entire history.”
Dr. Plummer, a leading voice in culturally responsive mental healthcare, is witnessing a concerning trend: an increase in Black women presenting with symptoms consistent with Acute Stress Disorder (ASD). The Mayo Clinic defines ASD as a short-term mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event, characterized by severe anxiety, flashbacks, and detachment. “Here’s a trauma disorder that occurs *before* Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),” Dr. Plummer emphasizes. “If we can capture the experience of that Black woman and help her through therapy interventions within the first six months of her traumatic event, then we are likely to prevent PTSD.”
Recognizing the Signs: Beyond Financial Worry
Whereas financial hardship is a primary stressor, the mental health impact of job loss extends far beyond budgeting concerns. Dr. Plummer identifies several key indicators that a woman may be struggling. A significant change in routine is often an early warning sign. “Let’s say they normally hang out with people and all of a sudden they don’t want to hang out anymore. If they had hobbies of which they found joy but don’t participate in those hobbies anymore. If they’re sleeping a lot more than they used to sleep, that’s a concern more so related to depression,” she explains.
Other red flags include changes in eating habits—overeating or, conversely, a loss of appetite—and an increased reliance on substances as a coping mechanism. “If they’re overeating or overdrinking, what’s happening is they necessitate some sort of stimulation as they’re not working anymore. Their brain needs stimulation, but those things have a negative effect,” Dr. Plummer notes. Perhaps more subtly, she points to the danger of negative fixations—repetitively replaying perceived injustices or setbacks—which can fuel anxiety and intrusive thoughts.
Negative self-talk is another critical indicator. “I’m never going back to work, I don’t trust people, or I’m not doing this anymore,” are examples of the harsh internal narratives that can signal a deeper struggle. Dr. Plummer cautions that while initial upset is normal, persistent negative thoughts lasting more than a couple of weeks warrant attention, as “emotions and thoughts are designed in our brains to be released.”
Addressing Barriers to Care and Building Support
Access to mental healthcare remains a significant barrier for many, particularly those who have lost employer-sponsored health benefits. Dr. Plummer and Onyx Therapy Group are actively working to address this challenge by offering sliding-scale rates, flexible fees, and pro bono services. “That is my social action,” she states. “To ensure that Black women don’t develop PTSD.”
Beyond individual therapy, Dr. Plummer emphasizes the importance of creating psychologically safe workplaces. “Supporting Black women in the workplace goes beyond hiring—it requires intentional efforts to create environments where they feel seen, valued, protected and appreciated,” she says. She highlights four key components of psychological safety: inclusion, learning, contributing, and challenging.
Dr. Plummer also points out the cultural importance of community in Black life. “Black communities are ‘communal people who lean in on each other,’ yet many corporate spaces fail to embrace this culture, creating stress for Black employees.” She believes that addressing this disconnect—and encouraging leaders to examine their own biases—is crucial for fostering a more supportive and equitable work environment.
For individuals, Dr. Plummer recommends prioritizing self-care basics: engaging in hobbies, maintaining a routine, eating well, and limiting exposure to overwhelming social media content. However, she stresses that systemic change is also necessary to address the root causes of stress and insecurity faced by Black women in the workplace.
As economic conditions continue to evolve, the mental health needs of Black women will remain a critical concern. Onyx Therapy Group and other organizations are continuing to assess the long-term impact of job losses and advocate for policies that support economic security and access to culturally competent mental healthcare. The next data release from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, scheduled for June 15th, is expected to provide further insight into employment trends among Black women.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for help. You can contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
What steps are you taking to prioritize your mental wellbeing during times of economic uncertainty? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
