PART 1: Finding Hope: My Journey with the Strong Mind Foundation Spiritual Seminar

Disclaimer: This article may contain triggering content on depression and suicide and is intended for mature audiences; discretion is advised.

Hope and Transformation

When I heard about the Strong Mind Foundation from Mr. Rolando Cortez, the foundation’s founder and president, I was filled with hope and excitement. Joining an organization dedicated to supporting mental health and preventing suicide has always been a dream of mine. 

As someone who has faced the uphill battle of Bipolar 1 with Borderline Personality Traits and survived multiple suicide attempts, attending the foundation’s Spiritual Seminar was a deeply personal and transformative experience. 

From the start, Mr. Cortez’s introduction to the seminar filled me with mixed emotions. I knew deep down that this program could be a lifeline for people like me struggling with mental health difficulties.

Throughout the seminar, discussing sensitive topics like suicide was incredibly tough. Yet, being in a space where judgment was left at the door allowed me to release emotions I had bottled up for so long and approach these topics with an open heart. 

The vulnerability and courage shown by my fellow attendees were truly inspiring. Hearing their stories of overcoming challenges provided a powerful message of hope and resilience. It was a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and that by sharing our experiences, we can find strength and support in one another. 

Lessons Learned: Finding Hope

This newfound hope fueled a journey of personal growth filled with valuable lessons. One of the most important things I took away from the seminar was embracing the wisdom of “life is short” and “live life to the fullest.” Despite ignoring these cliches in the past, the seminar helped me see their true value. I promised to start living by these principles, even when it feels tough. 

Dr. Noreen Molina, a psychiatrist, also discussed the importance of mental health. Her message about asking for help being an act of bravery also got me. I used to see seeking help as a sign of weakness, but my journey has taught me otherwise. It takes real courage to reach out, and I’m learning to celebrate that bravery in myself and others.

Moreover, exploring the topic of generational trauma was eye-opening. It made me realize the deep impact our family histories can have on our mental health. By acknowledging and addressing those inherited wounds, we can begin to cut and break free from cycles of pain and foster healing. 

Mr. Cortez’s reminder that “life is full of sufferings, from womb to tomb, but there are always silver linings at the end of the tunnel” resonated deeply with me. It reminded me that while life’s challenges are inevitable, our response to them shapes our resilience and growth. 

For every warrior struggling right now, may you have the courage to reach out and ask for help. 

National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline
Phone: 1553
09663514518
09086392672
09190571553 
09178998727 

Strong Mind Foundation
0917-4567429
rolandobcortez@gmail.com

Have you ever found strength in sharing your story? Let’s break the stigma surrounding mental health together. Share your experience in the comment section below!