Christian is a 23-year-old student-athlete at Belmont Abbey College. He is a member of the Belmont Abbey men’s soccer team and is set to graduate this May with a degree in Accounting. Christian’s journey has been inspired by his passion for the game of soccer and the deep connection he holds with his family and community. In many ways, soccer has given him numerous opportunities to grow as a strong-minded individual on and off the field. Christian mentioned that he chose the current team he plays for based on the growing opportunities the program offered.
Christian is from Winston-Salem, North Carolina where he is a member of a large family consisting of five siblings. Growing up, Chrisitan’s parents instilled in him the importance of family as they are one of the most powerful connections someone can have in their life. Seeing his older sister pursue higher education and become a social worker, Chrisitan realized he wanted to follow a similar path and aim for a successful future by attending college and earning a degree. Chrisitan originally attended a small Division III school called Louisburg College, located near Raleigh, North Carolina but entered the transfer portal in hopes of playing soccer for a larger college. Excitingly enough, Christian was offered the opportunity to play for the men’s soccer team at Belmont Abbey College; a Division II college located near Charlotte.
When he is not studying or playing soccer, Christian enjoys playing action-packed video games and working on cars. Fixing up his car and adding new details has become a recent hobby of his but he also mentions that working on cars can be somewhat of an expensive project. However, working on his car has taught him the value of dedication and hard work as he mentions “Nothing comes easy, you have to work for it.” When asked about his goals, Christian emphasized his plan to get a job where he can make a stable means for himself to eventually buy his dream car, a BMW X3 or X4 with bucket seats; one of his favorite features in regards to car modification.
Christian views mental health as an evolving concept that should be treated with openness and honesty. The power of having meaningful conversations with family and friends is the key to mental health advocacy because it is the only way to let someone’s voice be heard. Christian emphasized that “when you’re going through something, let people know. They are there to help you.” Christian also mentioned the stigmatization surrounding mental health in the Hispanic community. He acknowledges that his culture typically perceives mental health issues as a sign of weakness and unreliableness in a person’s cognitive ability. In the Hispanic community, a person strives to be perceived as an honorable and strong-minded individual who has a taste for working hard and earning achievements that will make their families proud. Although some members of his community try to avoid speaking about mental health issues, Christian takes on a modern perspective by explaining that “awareness is key” and to “take a break and talk to someone when you need it.” This approach helps him be more empathetic toward his friends and family who have struggled to deal with tough situations in the past.
Although Christian has not experienced severe mental health challenges himself, he recognizes the importance of addressing problems and being able to talk to a support system. Chritian’s advice for anyone going through mental health challenges is to “talk to someone. Your situation doesn't make you weak. It’s okay to go through things.” Christian’s compassionate attitude confirms that almost everyone goes through challenges in their life that they must deal with in one way or another. When asked about one thing he wanted people to take away most about his story is that “a healthy outlet goes a long way” for people who are struggling. Genuine human connection builds emotional intelligence and may also help build healthy habits, which can be powerful tools when addressing mental health issues.
Christian’s background and mental health perspectives are a testament to his resilient nature. He is committed to breaking the stigma of mental health concerns surrounding the Hispanic community. Christian’s determination and drive will help him succeed in reaching his goals and living an authentic lifestyle.
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