Introduction:
Hello! I am delighted to introduce myself as a social media intern at Paperflower Psychiatry. My name is Cristina, and I am on the cusp of completing my PA (Physician Assistant) education, with a passion for family practice and a deep-rooted commitment to mental health advocacy. Today, I would like to share my personal journey and how it has shaped my path to becoming an advocate for mental health.
Maria Ingalla: A Guiding Light through Uncharted Territory: In my personal journey of self-discovery and resilience, I had the privilege of crossing paths with Maria. Maria became my unwavering advocate, breaking through the barriers I had unknowingly placed upon myself due to the misconceptions deeply rooted in my cultural background. Growing up as a Latina, mental health was often viewed as a taboo subject, an unspoken burden to be endured silently. However, Maria guided me through the shadows of my social anxiety, dismantling the myths and taboos that held mental health captive within my community. She empowered me with the essential tools to not only embrace my diagnoses but also embark on a transformative path of healing and growth.
Breaking Taboos and Supporting Others:
Being diagnosed with ADHD, depression, social/generalized anxiety, and PTSD was just the first step on my journey. It provided me with a newfound understanding of my own experiences and ignited a desire to support my family and community in their own mental health journeys. Breaking through the cultural stigma surrounding mental health has been a challenging but vital endeavor. By sharing my story, offering resources, and engaging in open conversations, I hope to contribute to a more accepting and supportive environment for all individuals facing mental health challenges.
Gisselle: Growing up together: As she turned 16 this past May, Gisselle, my daughter, has grown alongside me, displaying a remarkable level of understanding and compassion beyond her years. Gisselle's kind soul and capacity for forgiveness have been instrumental to me in our shared growth. Despite the hardships and sacrifices that came with being a teenage motherand battling through postpa
rtum depression, Gisselle's unwavering love and support inspired me to rise above every obstacle that threatened to derail the dream of overcoming poverty and dedicate myself to building a better future for her and my family.
A Collaborative Journey:
In this new role at Paperflower Psychiatry, I am thrilled to combine my passion for mental health advocacy with the power of social media. Gisselle will be joining me here and there on this adventure. We aim to create engaging content that educates, inspires, and fosters understanding of mental health.
Conclusion: With every step I take, I am reminded of the transformative power of embracing mental health and advocating for change. My personal journey, the support of Maria, the love and inspiration I
receive from my daughter Gisselle, and the challenges I faced as a teenage mother, undocumented immigrant, and first-generation student have shaped my perspective and fueled my passion for making a difference. As a social media intern at Paperflower Psychiatry, I am excited and eager to contribute to their mission. The providers at Paperflower Psychiatry are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am honored to be able to amplify their goal of not only treating mental health conditions but also creating a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered.
