Dealing with long thick curly hair?

First of all, long and curly hair is beautiful! You should never feel ashamed about your hair. Second, my advice to you is that you may have to cut it if you cannot manage to brush it without yanking (don't yank!) Use a lot of conditioner and take your time to brush it evenly when it is wet. Then make sure to put it up in a ponytail or braid so it does not get tangled.