Unseen Strengths
Navigating Intersectionality of Race and Disability in the Workplace
Author(s): Buruuj Tunsill

Struggling with stigma, Tunsill navigated identity, mental health, and discrimination, learning to advocate for herself and others.

Publication Date 24 October, 2025 Available in all formats
ISBN: 9781917566186
Pages: 128

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How does a Black woman navigate mental health, identity, and workplace stigma while redefining resilience and success?

Unseen Strengths by Buruuj Tunsill explores identity, mental health, and resilience. Grappling with the question, “What is mental illness?” she challenges societal perceptions and systemic labels. Facing stigma in work environments, she seeks healthier coping mechanisms while navigating rejection from her community. After 13 years of highs and lows, she turns to higher education to advocate for others. This powerful narrative examines the complexities of being a Black woman with a mental illness, urging readers to rethink mental health narratives and embrace self-acceptance.

Ideal for those in Black studies, disability advocates, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone seeking insight into resilience, identity, and systemic challenges in mental health.

  • Cover
  • Half Title
  • Title Page
  • Copyright Page
  • Abstract
  • Table of Contents
  • Learning objectives
  • Prelude
  • 1 Who am I? The struggle of diagnosis and disconnection from Black modern culture
  • 2 Decision in motherhood: Choosing stability through work
  • 3 Navigating intersectionality in a hostile hierarchical culture
  • 4 Navigating in a clan culture with toxic “family” dynamics
  • 5 Forced into a hostile hierarchical culture: Navigating new challenges
  • Conclusion
  • Discussion questions
  • Recommended further readings
  • Index

Buruuj Tunsill is an Assistant Professor of Special Education with seven years of experience as a dedicated special educator. She is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and education. Her journey with schizoaffective disorder, diagnosed in 2010, inspired the writing of three impactful books.

About The Book

How does a Black woman navigate mental health, identity, and workplace stigma while redefining resilience and success?

Unseen Strengths by Buruuj Tunsill explores identity, mental health, and resilience. Grappling with the question, “What is mental illness?” she challenges societal perceptions and systemic labels. Facing stigma in work environments, she seeks healthier coping mechanisms while navigating rejection from her community. After 13 years of highs and lows, she turns to higher education to advocate for others. This powerful narrative examines the complexities of being a Black woman with a mental illness, urging readers to rethink mental health narratives and embrace self-acceptance.

Ideal for those in Black studies, disability advocates, mental health professionals, educators, and anyone seeking insight into resilience, identity, and systemic challenges in mental health.

Table of Contents
  • Cover
  • Half Title
  • Title Page
  • Copyright Page
  • Abstract
  • Table of Contents
  • Learning objectives
  • Prelude
  • 1 Who am I? The struggle of diagnosis and disconnection from Black modern culture
  • 2 Decision in motherhood: Choosing stability through work
  • 3 Navigating intersectionality in a hostile hierarchical culture
  • 4 Navigating in a clan culture with toxic “family” dynamics
  • 5 Forced into a hostile hierarchical culture: Navigating new challenges
  • Conclusion
  • Discussion questions
  • Recommended further readings
  • Index
About The Author

Buruuj Tunsill is an Assistant Professor of Special Education with seven years of experience as a dedicated special educator. She is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and education. Her journey with schizoaffective disorder, diagnosed in 2010, inspired the writing of three impactful books.

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