Your Blank Canvas

As we all know, Filipino American cultural values contribute to a strong sense of community but have led to nuanced challenges when navigating depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. In short terms, the words “mental health” is a topic, not many Filipino-Americans talk about and are often times seen as, “Hiya,” within a household. The term hiya translates to, “embarrassment.”  In this episode, I sat down with one of my good friends, Tricia, and we spoke about how mental health is portrayed in her own Filipino-American household. Everyone’s story is different so I ask that we speak and think with kindness and understanding.  Though talking about mental health can be difficult, talking about it is an important step in helping people recover. It’s uncomfortable but it is needed. If you are having a hard time, know that you are loved. You are seen but most importantly, you are more than enough.  More about Tricia Manalansan Tricia is a 30-year-old Filipina American who was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and majored in Communications. Tricia is the oldest of four children and a dog mom.  What She does:  Currently, she works in client services for one of the world's largest insurance brokers. She likes to spend her free time outdoors, running and is currently on the hunt for the perfect paddle-boarding spot.  Why mental health is important to me:  Mental health is important to me because, in the Filipino community, it is common to think of it as taboo. She went against the stereotype to engage in her own mental health journey and integrated ways to heal every day. You can't truly be on a health journey if mental health is not also prioritized. She wants her audience to see that healing your own mental health should be positive, rather than the perceptions of it being negative. 

This episode holds a special place in my heart as a Proud Filipina - a few weeks ago I sat down with Licensed Professional Counselor, Cristina Castro. In this episode, we spoke about the different representations of mental health in Filipino households - the struggles, the triumphs, and the lessons learned. Please know that our perspectives are based on our personal experiences. This is about us for us and for those who can relate. We also would like to dedicate this episode to a Filipino-American comedian and actor, JoKoy, and his most recent movie, Easter Sunday - a true milestone for Filipinos in Film. Salamat Jokoy for reminding us that it is okay to have tabos in our bathrooms. More about Cristina Castro: I'm Cristina Castro and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and doctoral student at Adler University in Counselor Education and Supervision. I practice at Gray Matter Therapy in Vernon Hills, IL. I immigrated from the Philippines to America when I was 12 years old with my family. My mother is rooted in Batangas and my father is from Pampanga, although we are mainly from Manila. As a clinician, mental health is important to me because I see firsthand the positive impact it has in changing people's lives. As Filipinas, mental health allows us to create a stronger connection to ourselves which leads to healthier and happier relationships with our community. You can find Cristina Castro in the following: Gray Matter Instagram: @graymattertherapy Gray Matter Facebook:https://m.facebook.com/graytherapy Gray Matter Website:www.graymattertherapy.net Psychology Today:https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/maria-cristina-castro-vernon-hills-il/882165 Kasamahan email:[email protected]

Welcome back to another episode of Your Blank Canvas podcast - a channel of unheard stories and a safe haven for all. I’m your host and founder Stella Marie. What’s popping you guys? I hope you are all doing well and having a great start to 2023 - if not, know that I am sending you my love and peace.  I know I've been MIA but listen, I appreciate your unconditional love and support over the past few years. Life has been life-ing but I am back and even better. This episode talks about where I've been, what's been happening in my life, and future content for this podcast. As always, if you're interested in sharing your stories, regardless of the good, the bad, the wins, and the losses, I want you. It matters and I'm here to remind you to truly be unapologetic of your own voice. Don't be silent. You know where to find me. Catch you on the other side. Ciao xo Instrumental music: @Marise Hizo Intro Music: @Christopher Kaleb  

The purpose of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. In this episode, I remind all of my listeners that everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. It is truly important to speak and think with kindness. Additionally, just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn't mean you can, should, or need to do it alone. Asking for help is the first step. You are more precious to this world than you'll ever know.  Below are some mental health resources that help can you and/or your loved ones.  Betterhelp  SAMHSA National Alliance on Mental Illness 

What's poppin' everyone? I know it's been a minute so I appreciate you all so much for being so patient and still so supportive of my hustle. With that said, I'll keep this short but just know I am so excited to share with you some life changes, updates, and what's more to come with this new chapter.  Be easy,  Stella Marie