Dr. Darrin Wright emphasizes the importance of integrating self-care and aftercare through culturally grounded, African-centered approaches. He highlights the need to balance proactive and reactive mental health strategies while centering individuals in their own stories. For Black men in particular, he calls for personalized wellness plans that reflect both individual and collective experiences.

Dr. Wright cautions against glorifying resilience, especially in marginalized communities, noting that while resilience is valuable, it should not excuse systems that cause suffering. He urges social workers to use culturally humble, community-based approaches and build networks of formal and informal support.

He also encourages practices that promote emotional literacy, healthy relationships, and nonviolent conflict resolution—especially among men who may have grown up under harsh disciplinary norms. Through stories, like gifting a wellness journal to his son, Dr. Wright shows the role of self-awareness and intergenerational healing in long-term wellness.

Dr. Darrin E. Wright powerful talk unpacks the impact of intergenerational trauma on Caribbean men, rooted in colonial history, systemic racism, and cultural norms. Dr. Wright explores how trauma is passed down, shaping Black men’s mental health, identity, and emotional responses today.

Dr. Darrin E. Wright is Associate Dean of Social Work at Fayetteville State University, with prior leadership at Clark Atlanta University. His work spans corporate, academic, nonprofit, and military sectors. A recognized voice in national and Caribbean social work education, Dr. Wright focuses on integrated behavioral health, African-centered practice, and workforce development. He holds a BA in Forensic Psychology, an MSW from Columbia, and a Ph.D. from Clark Atlanta.