Natalia Salinas M.S.W., L.C.S.W Shares Her Recovery from Mental Illness Story with Helpful Insights

As mentioned in the title, this is my personal recovery story with my personal insights. I have a huge fear that those who read my book will think I am too mentally ill to be helping others. However, I also have hope that those with serious mental illness can read this book and be inspired to not give up on themselves simply because they have mental illness.

Having mental illness is not something I am proud of, but I have worked hard to no longer feel ashamed. I hid my mental illness for far too long. I am grateful for being alive despite my various suicide attempts. I am strong, relient, and loveable!

Initially, I wanted to include a lot on "teachings" I do with my client's, but this material seemed dry without the context of how I am actually helping. I also did not want to off put any of my clients by sharing too much about any specific stories. So, I maintain the entire book about myself and my struggles. I truly hope my book helps my readers. Maybe it will help you understand yourself; maybe it will help you understand someone you love; or maybe you are simply curious and want to read about how one can suffer from mental illness and have a wonderful life regardless.

I am grateful for you picking up my book and considering reading it.

Born in Mexico and raised in McFarland, California. My community became more widely known after Disney produced a movie "McFarland, USA" about our cross-country team, but while I was growing up, it wasn't even on the map! In the early 1980s, we organized and fought as a community against a cancer cluster that plagued our community. My parents were community organizers and I admired them for this. I had an exciting childhood with people from all over the United States coming to McFarland to visit and organize against injustices during the summers.

However, while I enjoyed my childhood, I also struggled with serious mental illness. When I was 14 years old I attempted suicide for the second time by jumping off the McFarland walking bridge. However, I was not accepting of medication or therapy for my mental illness until I was in my early 40's. I do NOT recommend this. Becoming accepting of my mental illness was part of my journey.

I am now a successful Licensed Clinical Social Worker with specific training in addictions. I have a variety of training and more than 15 years of experience, but ultimately I believe that I am better able to help my clients because of my past experiences. Giving back to the community of people with mental illness and those with loved ones who may have mental illness brings me joy.

I also have an interest in changing the world. I am committed to creating a world of
LOVE * ABUNDANCE * UNITY

I am hopeful that this book will help me dedicate more time to the things I am passionate about.