Have you ever wondered how you are doing as well as you are? Considering all that you have been through? Looking back, did you have a mentor, teacher, or a coach that believed in you? Or did you have all of your physical needs met (food, water, shelter, and education)? Black women have a variety of experiences that have shaped how they see themselves and the world. In our blog What are ACES and how can Black women overcome them? We discussed how trauma in childhood increases the likelihood of physical and mental health issues later in life. ACES are important to understand because it gives us an opportunity to intervene and interrupt the pattern through programs, resources and relationships.

What is equally as important is the discussion of resilience factors. In this blog, we will define PACES, discuss the types of PACES, and share some ways that Black women can foster them in their everyday life.

What are PACES (Protective and Compensatory Experiences)?

Protective and Compensatory Experiences (PACES) are those aspects of your life that help you either cope with (compensatory) or shield (protect) you from adversities. These experiences do not completely reverse the effects of childhood trauma but they can greatly diminish the impact. It comes down to relationships and resources. Research has shown that even if you do have Adverse Childhood Experiences, you are less likely to experience depression and can have better mental health if you have Protective and Compensatory Experiences.

Why are PACES important?

PACES are important to understand because of its ability to weaken the link to mental health disorders therefore acting as a protective factor. Being armed with the knowledge of ACES and its impact can change attitudes around parenting and other family dynamics. Black women’s experiences with PACES are impacted by intersectionality (race, gender, and other identities).  

Types of PACES that Black women Need

Not all Black women have the same experiences. Various socioeconomic statuses and geographic locations impact experiences. Below are the types of Protective and Compensatory Experiences that Black women need broken out into two important categories:

• Supportive Relationships - Though it is hard for Black women to be vulnerable on purpose, the need for connection and belonging is critical. 

• Unconditional love and support from a caregiver

• Seeing pride of cultural identity reflected

• Having a best friend

• Volunteering in a community

• Being a part of a group/sisterhood

• Having a mentor that has overcome similar challenges

• Enriching Resources - The quality of the environment is important to create the best chances for development and growth. 

• Living in a safe home where needs are met

• Getting a quality education that leads to opportunities for growth

• Having a hobby or creative outlet

• Being physically active

• Having rules and routine

Related Article: Black Women and Vulnerability: How to Ask For What You Need During the Holidays

Parentification and PACES

If you experienced parentification growing up (when a child takes on the responsibilities of an adult or a caregiver) it’s likely that you had to step in before you were developmentally ready and inherited unfair burdens. In some ways, parentification can be both protective and compensatory. On one hand, a child can gain empowerment, self agency, and a sense of purpose as they take control of the situation. And on the other hand, parentification causes significant emotional stress, role confusion, and emotional and social interruptions. Parentificaiton can be used as both a coping mechanism to navigate difficult family circumstances and a response to adverse events themselves. Parentification Therapy with Myers-Galloway Counseling supports clients in developing a sense of self and understanding of your personal needs.

Related Article: What is Parentification? Why should it matter to Black women?

Ways Black women can access more PACES

It’s not too late. Here are a few things you can incorporate into your own personal plan to improve your mental health, resilience, and overall well being. 

1. Develop healthy self care practices that promote stress reduction and relaxation 

2. Invest in yourself through therapy or coaching

3. Celebrate your personal achievements, no matter how small

4. Say “No” more often

5. Embrace a growth mindset which acknowledges that setbacks are a part of life

The main takeaway

There is no justification for abuse or neglect in childhood. Wrong is wrong. However, putting too much focus on what was done to us keeps us stuck and holds up our healing process. What we want you to remember the most after reading this blog is that you have a say in your own journey. Support is available in many different forms.   

If you were honest with yourself, which PACES do you need to implement today? Working with a therapist at Myers-Galloway Counseling is validating in many ways as we focus on practicing through our signature approach of helping you create a support system, teaching you about boundaries, creating your own core values and teaching you about mindfulness techniques. 

Call (704) 750-1889 or email us at hello@myersgallowaycounseling.com today to speak with a member of our team.