My understanding of mental health unfolded gradually and in various stages throughout my life.
In 2011, during my junior year of high school and my first real relationship, I learned for the first time about "mental health disorders”. Unfortunately, this relationship was toxic—marked by emotional abuse, control, manipulation, and a lack of trust on both sides. It was during this chaotic period that I was introduced to the idea of therapy, and after a few sessions, I received a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder.
By 2015, I was in yet another troubled relationship that ended, leaving me heartbroken. Feeling lost and confused, I started seeing a shift in my mental health. One night, while out with my sisters, I experienced symptoms that I initially attributed to my asthma. However, it wasn't until I began driving home that I realized something was seriously wrong. Upon returning home, I lost control of my body, prompting my roommates to call 911. It was then that I recognized the possibility of experiencing a panic attack due to anxiety. Seeking help, I sought out another therapist who diagnosed me with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, among other issues.
The following year proved to be one of the most challenging periods of my twenties as I grappled with my recent diagnosis of GAD and tried to manage my daily life. My mental health declined rapidly, as I turned to substance abuse, skipped classes, and lost focus on my priorities. Recognizing the severity of my situation, I made the difficult decision to move back home and take off the following semester.
From 2016 until last year, I faced a multitude of challenges, including managing my mental health disorders, completing my undergraduate degree, embarking on postgraduate life, navigating relationships, friendships, and career decisions. Amidst the chaos, my focus consistently revolved around two core aspects: my relationships and my mental health. With my second mental health diagnosis, my attention shifted towards understanding how my disorders impacted my relationships.
I became deeply passionate about mental health advocacy, drawing from my own lived experiences and limited knowledge. Over time, this passion, advocacy, and personal experience became integral parts of my identity and personality.
Entering my first healthy relationship with my current partner brought many issues to the surface that I had to confront and address. This marked the beginning of my journey towards healing. I sought the guidance of a relationship coach, began attending church, and started regular sessions with a therapist, a practice I still maintain today. These three factors led me to a realization that I found myself at a loss, unsure of my identity. My focus on relationships and my mental health struggles consumed me to the point where I lost sight of who I truly was and the life I was living.
My journey toward healing made me realize the importance of determining my path forward towards the life I desired. Now, it involves taking charge of my mental health, establishing balance across all areas of my life—not just relationships and mental well-being—and discovering my identity as a woman in my thirties.
And so, Soul Surfin’ Life Coaching came into existence–a unique spin on the concept of soul searching. For me, life is about discovering what ignites your soul, understanding your true self, and refusing to settle for anything less. Pain, emotions, obstacles, and all else may come in waves, but those waves will eventually pass. I’ve always believed it and I’ll keep saying it: keep riding you waves, my loves.
I wouldn't be the woman or coach I am today without prioritizing the investment on myself. Coaching entered my life in 2020, opening up a world of opportunities. I'm passionate about seeking guidance and learning from others and it’s helped me recognize that investing in myself is essential for both personal and professional development.
Here are the investments I've made and will continue to make to achieve both a balanced lifestyle and my coaching aspirations.
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020