From Silence to Strength: How an Article Reminded Me I’m Not Alone
When I came across the PEP.PH article “Experts to Filipinos: Prioritize mental health, fight stigma” by KC Cordero, I paused and felt something I haven’t felt in a long time — validation.
👉 Read the article here
As someone clinically diagnosed with bipolar disorder and social anxiety, right in the middle of my public speaking and entrepreneurship career in December 2023, that story struck me deeply. It reminded me that even in silence, there are people fighting battles others cannot see — and that it’s okay to speak up.
The Day I Shared My PWD ID
Around Q1 or Q2 of 2024, I proudly posted my PWD ID online after my college graduation. I thought people — especially friends — would understand. But instead, I heard words that cut deep:
“Nabaliw.”
“Mag-ingat ka diyan, may sakit sa utak yan.”
Even at the pharmacy, I would overhear whispers like,
“Ang laki naman niyan, bakit sa PWD lane?”
“Parang wala namang sakit yan.”
Or worse — mocking laughter that judged me for my size, not knowing that behind the smile is a person managing mental illness, trying his best every single day.
Those were the hardest moments of my early treatment. Not just the medication or therapy, but losing friends, clients, and confidence — both online and offline.
Why PEP.PH’s Article Mattered
Reading KC Cordero’s piece made me feel seen.
It reminded me that there are compassionate journalists who choose to tell stories that heal.
Articles like this don’t just inform — they educate and humanize.
Mental health awareness shouldn’t only reach the younger generation. It must also reach the older ones — parents, relatives, and community leaders — who are often the first to misjudge or spread misinformation about mental conditions.
Invisible disabilities are real. They may not show physically, but they carry emotional and mental scars that many of us quietly endure.
Moving Forward
To KC Cordero and the PEP.PH Team — thank you for amplifying conversations that matter.
Thank you for helping people like me feel less alone.
And thank you for showing that being a journalist today means not just reporting stories, but restoring empathy in a world that often forgets it.
As a mental health advocate, entrepreneur, and speaker, I will continue to use my voice to raise awareness — for those who can’t, for those who are afraid, and for those still healing.
Because mental health isn’t just a conversation.
It’s a lifeline.
💚 Closing Note
To everyone reading this — let’s keep the conversation going.
If you see someone who seems fine but is silently struggling, offer kindness instead of judgment.
And if you’re one of us fighting invisible battles — please know, you’re not alone.
