Genesis Perez
Interview Transcript
Genesis: Hello let’s start off with your name, age and also where you are from.
Bryan: my name is Bryan I am and 18 year old and I am from Mexico
Genesis: let me start with the questions, have you ever had any mental health issues? And if so what?
Bryan: well when I was around the age of 15 to 16 I had come down with depression. I really didn’t know what to do felt hopeless but then I realized it was all in
my head and not a big deal.
Genesis: I’m glad you found a way to overcome it. Next, how would you describe your overall approach to me gaining your mental well being?
Bryan: well like I said it’s more I just don’t think much of it, I just see it as a moment of this will pass so I don’t let it take much of my head and also I find it
stupid to feel these types of way
Genesis: I understand. Now can you share and experience where you faced a mental health challenge, and how did you cope with it? I know you said more about
how you cope earlier but let me know
Bryan: well there was a time I was in a very dark place I also didn’t know how to cope with things since I am a very angry person and I really let it get to my head
but I feel like I just read a lot of psychology books and watched videos and realized it was all in my head nothing really to stress about nothing to complain. All I
have to do is just let it pass and I’ll be okay it’s just a moment and it’ll pass. Also in my family it’s not a thing to be depressed or feel like that so I also felt that I
needed to toughen up.
Genesis: thank you I really liked that answer.
Genesis: in you’re opinion what roles does work and or life play in mental health?
Bryan: Well I do have a job and I’m still a student. Balancing a job while attending school can be quite a challenge, and it’s understandable that you’re feeling the
weight of it all. Over time, I’ve found that school has become less stressful for me, and my academic work has become more manageable. However, the demands
of my job have increased my time and energy, leading to a sense of being overwhelmed.I find myself working long hours, which often leaves little room for
personal enjoyment or relaxation. The simple pleasures that I once took for granted like hanging out with friends, pursuing hobbies, or even just unwinding have
become distant memories. Instead, my days often revolve around a cycle of waking up early, attending classes, and most days going off to work, and then coming
home late to study or complete assignments. This Type of schedule makes it difficult to carve out time for time for myself: The lack of sleep has also become a
significant concern. Trying to do demanding work hours and my academic responsibilities often results in me a rest. I frequently find myself tossing and turning
at night, unable to fully recharge after such a hectic day. This fatigue only adds to my stress levels, leaving me feeling drained and unfocused.
Genesis: not having enough sleep can lead to people being more stressed.
Genesis: how do you typically handle stress in more of a public area?
Bryan: When I find myself feeling stressed, especially in places outside of home, I often retreat inward and become somewhat detached from my surroundings. I
shut out the noise and distractions around me, seeking isolation in my own thoughts. This quiet time allows me to process my feelings and regain my composure,
even if just for a moment. By stepping away mentally, I create a space where I can acknowledge my stress without being overwhelmed by it. Whether it’s finding
a quiet corner, strolling alone, or simply sitting in silence by myself, these moments of solitude help me let the stress pass, enabling me to return to the world with
a clearer perspective.
Genesis: what are your thoughts on seeking help and support for mental health concerns and what type of resources do you find valuable?
Bryan:I genuinely believe that when anyone experiences difficult emotions, it’s important for them to first try to address those feelings on their own. Taking the
time to reflect and find personal coping strategies can be a valuable part of the process. However, when they realize that they can’t navigate it alone, seeking help
becomes a vital next step. It’s perfectly okay to reach out for support, whether from friends, family, or professionals, as sometimes shared experiences and
guidance can make all the difference.
Genesis: I do agree it’s important to try on your own before asking
Genesis: last question. How do you feel about the importance of open communication and support in relation to mental health?
Bryan: well I do feel like everyone should try and discuss their own issues to themselves but it is very important to have people to support you in what you need
when it gets hard.
Genesis. Well thank you for your time