Mynor was feeling anxious, depressed, and overwhelmed. His mother, who lived back home in Guatemala, was diagnosed with cancer. He hadn't seen his family in years. He was in a toxic relationship that cost him money and made him question himself. One day, a friend noticed Mynor had lost a lot of weight and urged him to talk to someone.
"It’s very difficult for men in Latino cultures to ask for help,” says Manuela Lopez-Florez, a bilingual social worker at Advocates who grew up in Colombia and came to the US as a child.
But luckily, Mynor came to Advocates. “Finding a therapist who shares your background makes a huge difference,” says Manuela. “Mynor and I speak the same language. We had similar childhoods, and our families have the same traditions. We connected immediately.”
Mynor adds, “I usually keep my problems private. I worry people will think I am weak at going to a therapist. But I liked Manuela. She was one of few people who knew how to pronounce my name immediately.”
Manuela smiles when she thinks of Mynor. “I tried to create a safe space for him. Little by little, he became more comfortable talking about his feelings. I told him to let go of stereotypes because they were interfering with his growth and healing. I told him it's OK to cry.”
Mynor felt that he could be honest with Manuela. “She didn’t judge me,” he says. “Honestly, she helped me a lot with my thoughts. I used to put other people first, and now I know how to focus on what makes me happy. I value myself.”
As time went on, Mynor was able to see things differently. He realized he didn't have to take care of everyone else. He developed healthier ways to deal with loneliness and navigate stress.
Mynor says he is feeling calmer now. He is proud of the work he does as a carpenter, and he has regained the weight he lost. He spends his free time listening to music, fishing, attending church, and spending time with friends.
“It is important to speak with professionals who understand you. It really will make you feel better,” says Mynor. “Thank you very much for helping me. Tell Manuela thank you from the bottom of my heart."
