Urban League of Hampton Roads Partner Profile
Gaps in mental health services, especially in the Black community, come as no surprise to Deborah Harris. A lifetime of personal experiences and observations led Mrs. Harris to launch a nonprofit organization that focuses on mental health and suicide prevention in Hampton Roads. Launched in 2019, Your Wellness Inc. is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals who have lost hope. As a mental health advocate and community service volunteer, Harris helps others find pathways to recovery through outreach ministry and therapeutic referrals.
Studies show stress, family violence, poverty, police brutality and trauma are some of the leading causes of mental illness in the Black community. In 2019, suicide was the second leading cause of death for African Americans, ages 15 to 24, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
As a survivor of child abuse, depression and attempts to take her own life, Harris believes God spared her life for a reason. “God purposed me to get into the field and share with others what has worked for me,” Harris said.
Harris understands the connection mental health has to overall health. Her personal mission is to help educate people on the causes of mental illness and substance abuse disorders that contribute to suicide.
Harris is a certified peer recovery specialist, caregiver, and cognitive behavior therapy practitioner. She has published a self-help book “Listen” that provides a faith-based guide to wellness and has committed to donating 10% of the proceeds to wellness items for those in need. In addition to founding Your Wellness Inc., Harris is also a Chapter Lead for the SoGal Foundation that supports diverse entrepreneurs and investors, and she is a member of the International Society of Female Professionals (ISFP). As a National Alliance Mental Illness (NAMI) group facilitator, Harris created and serves as administrator of an online support group, “All About Hope” which mentors those battling addictions and mental illnesses.
Harris partners with the Urban League to increase mental wellness awareness in minority communities throughout Hampton Roads. Earlier this year, she participated in the Urban League’s Mental Health Forum with Veteran’s Homefront and Norfolk State University which was presented by Black Brand and Geico. Through a holistic approach, Your Wellness Inc. assists clients to access and navigate public and private mental health resources.
To learn more, visit www.YourWellnessInc.net.