Education
Expanding knowledge and understanding of the impact of stress on material health.
Empowerment
Providing resources and tools to build resiliency.
Elevate
Lifting Up. Growing confidence. Achieving balance.
Please join UF Health Jacksonville and partners as we help women enhance understanding, strengthen access to tools, increase awareness by helping women identify coping mechanisms to address the effects on health and well-being.
Understanding Toxic Stress and Its Impact on Women’s Health
Toxic stress is a type of chronic stress that occurs when we experience prolonged exposure to difficult or traumatic situations without adequate support. For Black and other women of color, the effects of toxic stress can have serious implications for both maternal and infant health.
Signs of Toxic Stress Include:
- Persistent feelings of anxiety or pressure
- Difficulty sleeping
- High blood pressure
- Chronic fatigue
Why It Matters
When stress levels remain high over a long period, it can affect your body in ways that increase the risk of:
- Pre-term births
- Low birth weight
- Increased likelihood of postpartum depression
- Health complications for both mother and baby
Without the right support, toxic stress can disrupt your pregnancy journey, but with awareness and proper resources, you can reduce its impact.
How We Help
Life’s Course: The Load, The Impact is focused on helping women manage toxic stress through access to vital resources, expert care, and community support. Our programs offers:
- Workshops on stress management
- Free health screenings and counseling services
- Support from healthcare professionals who understand the unique stressors black women face
By addressing toxic stress, we aim to improve your health outcomes and give your baby the best start in life.
Our Partners
Supporting a Woman’s Health Journey
We are proud to partner with incredible organizations that are committed to supporting women throughout every stage of their Life’s Course. Our partners bring expert knowledge and compassionate care to help you navigate stress, health challenges, and well-being. Explore their services and learn how they are making a difference.
Dr. Angela Griffin, AGC
Empowering individuals and communities through coaching and strategic support. Led by Dr. Angela Griffin, AGC ‘The Fixer’ provides strategic coaching to break down barriers and help women actualize their goals. Their guidance helps you reduce stress and achieve long-term success, both personally and professionally.
Emmanuel Project
Providing community-based support for maternal health and wellness. The Emmanuel Project focuses on community-driven solutions to improve maternal health outcomes for black women. Their initiatives offer education, resources, and support groups, empowering women to take control of their health and well-being.
Lotus Flower Project
Healing through compassionate support for women in need. Is committed to helping women heal emotionally and mentally from trauma and stress. They provide counseling, workshops, and resources aimed at restoring emotional balance and creating safe spaces for black women preparing for pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum.
MommyTu
Providing expert care and resources for postpartum wellness. MommyTu focuses on supporting new mothers through the challenging postpartum phase, offering wellness services designed to enhance emotional, social, and physical recovery.
Women’s Center of Jacksonville
Empowering women through health, advocacy, and emotional support. The WCJ offers a wide range of services for women, including reproductive health support, counseling for managing stress, and advocacy programs. They provide an inclusive environment where black women can access the resources they need to thrive.
Voices Institute, LLC
Providing training and consulting services focused on advancing health equity and addressing the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of families and communities. They develop multicultural health education campaigns and facilitate discussions on topics such as racial stress, trauma, social justice, and sickle cell disease.
Why Partner with Us?
We believe in the power of collaboration to improve maternal health outcomes. If you’re an
organization that shares our mission, reach out to learn how we can work together to create a
healthier community.
Why Stress Management Matters for Women of Color Maternal Health
Whether you’re preparing for pregnancy, already pregnant, or post-partum, there is a place for
you in this community. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
Your well-being and the health of your baby matters!
Connect and Get Involved
For inquiries or to get involved, please reach out to:
Urban Health Alliance
Email: UHA@jax.ufl.edu
Phone: (904) 244-8415
Visit us on Facebook
Let’s come together and take steps toward building healthier and more resilient communities. Your involvement and support are invaluable, truly making a difference in this shared journey. With empathy and unity, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for everyone.