We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Bernie Naranjo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Bernie below.
Bernie , sincerely appreciate your selflessness in agreeing to discuss your mental health journey and how you overcame and persisted despite the challenges. Please share with our readers how you overcame. For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
As an associate clinician and a second-year doctoral student in the field of mental health, I have acquired valuable insights into the diverse aspects of mental health and its implications. Although life, academia, and professional responsibilities can be sources of significant stress, it is essential to navigate these stressors with an understanding of one’s capabilities and the distinction between achievable goals and unrealistic expectations. Throughout my involvement in various projects, I have frequently been the youngest participant, which has at times benefitted my perspective while also raising questions regarding my credibility.
Over the years, I have come to recognize that mental health constitutes a journey rather than a fixed destination. There have been instances when I have experienced overwhelming stress; however, instead of allowing these challenges to define my identity, I have prioritized self-advocacy, even during difficult times. I have discovered strength in seemingly minor yet meaningful actions: taking a deliberate deep breath in moments of anxiety, reaching out to friends when feelings of isolation arise, and acknowledging that it is acceptable to experience periods of struggle.
I have learned that persistence does not equate to enduring pain without recognition; rather, it involves embracing my challenges as integral to my growth and resilience. This ongoing process entails cultivating self-compassion, seeking support when necessary, and recognizing the importance of taking breaks to recalibrate, thereby empowering myself to return stronger.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Working in the mental health field, I have developed an understanding of the various challenges related to program enrollment and eligibility. My primary objective is to create a supportive environment that ensures these challenges do not hinder access to community resources. Solano County, while expansive, encounters a significant scarcity of available resources. La Obra, a small yet impactful community-based foundation, seeks to serve as a vital liaison within the community, dedicated to connecting individuals, providing essential services, and promoting community development.
La Obra is guided by four foundational pillars encapsulated in our motto: “humandidad, bondad, esperanza, and favor,” which translate to humanity, hope, favor, and goodness. What commenced as an initiative involving ten individuals has now grown to encompass approximately thirty volunteers. This initiative originated as an idea conceived by my grandfather, whom I refer to as Tata. Although he was unable to witness the project evolve into its current form, I take pride in our ability to support families, students, and houseless communities with vital resources.
Each year, we organize events with the assistance of our private sponsors and donors to secure funding, which we utilize to create hygiene kits and other essential supplies for those in need. La Obra is having our first networking event in the summer and we are excited to have the community involved.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
While La Obra is on its journey to reaching its full potential, it’s essential to be patient with yourself and to prioritize quality over quantity. Many organizations may focus on producing 300+ kits, but in doing so, they often overlook the importance of personal connections with their providers and receivers. Stay determined and true to your vision and motto. Always remember the purpose behind your work, and don’t seek immediate recognition or rewards; everything will unfold in its own time.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
La Obra is consistently seeking opportunities to collaborate with dedicated individuals and organizations that are committed to mental health awareness, community healing, and emotional well-being. Our mission at La Obra is centered on facilitating meaningful discussions surrounding mental health, establishing support networks, and empowering individuals to challenge the stigma associated with mental illness.
I am particularly eager to connect with those who share these values, including mental health professionals, community organizers, content creators, and advocates with lived experience. Collaboration is fundamental to our approach at La Obra, and together, we can cultivate more environments conducive to healing, empathy, and understanding.
If you are interested in forming a partnership, please feel free to reach out via direct message on my social media platforms or through email. I look forward to exploring how we can work together to enhance our collective impact, develop resources for those in need, and prioritize mental health within our communities.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laobrafoundation/profilecard/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernienaranjo?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Other: Email: [email protected]
Image Credits
None
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
