By: Overnight Publicity
Life’s unpredictability can be both exhilarating and terrifying. Like a river, it flows with calm stretches and turbulent rapids. During these challenging times, a strong support system of family, friends, and mental health professionals becomes our lifeline, guiding us towards emotional stability and resilience.
My story begins in the hallways of my high school, where an innocent interaction sparked a wildfire of rumors that would follow me for years. It started when a boy on the school bus, who had previously shown interest in dating me, asked an inappropriate question about self-pleasure. Uncomfortable and taken aback, I simply shook my head “no” and moved to a different seat. Little did I know that this small gesture would become the catalyst for years of torment.
The cruelty reached new heights when someone went as far as publicly shaming me at a basketball game. They displayed my picture and hurled derogatory names at me, turning what should have been an enjoyable event into a nightmare. These rumors continued to haunt me well into adulthood, causing ongoing distress and harassment. There were even frightening instances where strangers followed me, subjecting me to verbal and physical attacks.
Navigating this tumultuous journey was made even more challenging by my autism. The naivety, anxiety, and communication difficulties that often accompany autism made it hard for me to accurately interpret and respond to these complex social situations. There were times when I struggled to defend myself or explain my side of the story, which only seemed to fuel the rumors further.
Despite these overwhelming challenges, I refused to let the cruelty of others define me. I leaned heavily on my faith, drawing strength from my beliefs and the hope they provided. My determination to succeed and fulfill my purpose became my driving force. I made a conscious decision not to give in to the sadistic individuals who seemed intent on breaking my spirit.
“Awareness is the first step to change,” became my mantra. I realized that by sharing my story, I could potentially help others who might be going through similar experiences. It became clear to me that bullying knows no bounds, but neither does resilience. This realization empowered me to push forward, using my experiences as a catalyst for personal growth and a tool to help others.
Today, as a school psychologist specializing in autism and child find evaluations and counseling, I use my past experiences to fuel my passion for helping others. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), play therapy, and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). My goal is to provide a holistic approach to support the well-being of my students, ensuring that every child receives the support they need to thrive.
My journey has also inspired me to become an advocate for mental health awareness in the minority community. I understand firsthand the importance of breaking down stigmas and providing accessible support for those who need it most.
Outside of my professional life, I find joy in volunteering, extending my compassion beyond the school setting. I also nurture my creative side through crafting, finding solace and expression in the act of creating. My faith continues to be a cornerstone of my life, and I regularly attend church, drawing strength from my spiritual community.
Perhaps most importantly, I cherish the adventures I embark on with my family. These moments of exploration and discovery serve as a reminder of the beauty and joy that life can offer, even after experiencing such difficult times.
My story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of human connection. It stands as a testament to the fact that even in our darkest moments, with the right support and determination, we can not only survive but thrive. To anyone facing bullying or struggling with its aftermath, remember: your story isn’t over, and your resilience is a force to be reckoned with.
Published by: Martin De Juan
