Paul Gilmartin
Paul Gilmartin
#288 Social Worker In Training
#288 Social Worker In Training
#288 Social Worker In Training
Friday 29th July 2016
Social worker Cynthia Pena discusses prejudice, anxiety, and her dream of expanding mental health in athletics on Mental Illness Happy Hour.
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151 minutes
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Hopeful
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Paul Gilmartin
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Get the buttons here!Cynthia Pena: A Social Worker’s Journey Through Prejudice and Anxiety
There's nothing like having our pain and our struggle reflected back and validated nothing, and it's crazy the lengths we will go to to try to have that done in a way that's not healthy.
Picture growing up in a community where your skin tone defines you, and being the 'good child' means you're often overlooked. That's the reality Cynthia Pena ACSW shares in this episode of Mental Illness Happy Hour. At 28, Cynthia opens up about her experiences with skin tone prejudice within the Hispanic community, her struggles with anxiety, and the challenges she faces working in an overloaded county system.
Her story isn't just about hardship; it's also about her dream of integrating mental health into athletics, offering a fresh perspective on how we can support mental wellness in sports. Cynthia's candid discussion covers her life as the 'good child' who was often forgotten because she didn't cause trouble. She dives into her personal battles with anxiety and how certain triggers can set her off.
Working as a social worker, Cynthia helps children with severe or persistent mental illnesses, shedding light on the emotional toll this work can take. Her passion for expanding the role of mental health in athletics is a testament to her commitment to making a difference. One of the standout moments in this episode is Cynthia's exploration of mental illness through a psychoanalytic lens. This approach has not only helped her understand her own struggles but also those of her patients.
She emphasizes the importance of self-validation, rather than seeking approval from others, and how crucial it is to acknowledge one's own pain and struggles. Cynthia's raw and heartfelt conversation is a powerful reminder that breaking the stigma around mental health starts with sharing our stories. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by social workers and the importance of mental health awareness in all areas of life.
If you're looking for an honest and inspiring discussion on mental health, this episode is a must-listen.