We were lucky to catch up with Lupe Hernandez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Lupe , we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? 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.
I became diagnosed with anxiety by a doctor when I was in middle school or high school. I can’t remember which. It was on my chart, and I didn’t realize I may have had a problem till after a bad breakup. I suffer from anxiety/ depression and am bipolar. Bipolar illness runs in my family. My oldest sister and mother have it. My sister and I are very open about our mental health. I take my medication every day and attend therapy. There are days all I want to do is stay in bed. There are days I can be having a panic attack and I have to use coping mechanisms to calm myself down. I tend to not surround myself with people that think mental health problems are all in your head. I’ve gone to group therapy, and it really helped to hear other people’s stories. All I can really do is take care of myself. I remembered at such a young age I had an attachment to my mother and wouldn’t want her to leave my side. I’d cry and get a knot in my stomach and throat before school. Not only that, but I believe that is where my anxiety stems from. I surround myself with a strong support system. I stay in touch with my nurse practitioner. She is the best, and we always adjust my medication as needed. If you’re experiencing depression or anxiety, I suggest getting the help you need. It’s not bad to take medication for mental health issues or talking to someone.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a full-time paraprofessional at an elementary school. I love educating children and working with them. I might not be the teacher, but it’s been my dream since I was little to work in an education setting. I blog on the side sometimes, and I love posting on Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. I’m trying to build my following on all three platforms. I plan to celebrate when I get to 5k on Snapchat. My Snapchat is @looph95
I’m a Latina and my family consists of my parents and my three older sisters. Family means a lot to me. Sunday dinner at my grandparent’s house is always special to me. I will be turning 30 this year. I wish for health for my family and I. I’m wishing for more income and to receive more PR from brands. I love testing beauty, household items, and food for my followers to see.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I’ve always had a strong work ethic. I try my best not to miss work. I got that from my father. I watched him wake up at 3 in the morning to provide for my family. Luckily, he’s enjoying retirement now. I guess you could say I’m creative. I love doing my makeup or on others. I’m able to film videos and take pictures for my content. I have the skill of collaborating when it comes to working with others or with brands. I think all three skills have made it possible for me to not lose my mind. Being bipolar can be challenging. If you’re starting on your mental health journey, it’s really important you are able to hold down a job, I did do some job hopping back in the day, but I’m finally happy where I am in life. It’ll give you something to keep busy and not dwell on bad thoughts. I think anyone can find their creatively outlet and be able to collaborate with friends/family or coworkers.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
A challenge I’ve begun to endure is debt. I got a credit card and I just started swiping it like nobody’s business. I think me being bipolar can definitely lead to a spending problem. When you are in a manic episode and on a high from it, shopping may make things feel better. Or if you don’t suffer from mental health problems, shopping may give you this instant feeling of happiness. One of my old psychiatrists was always warning me about shopping. I should’ve listened to him. Things are getting better though. I’m budgeting, reading books, and using cash envelopes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ahintofbeauty.blogspot.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loop_h95/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@loop212
- Other: Snapchat – @looph95
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