Get Inspired with #HispaFam - February 2025 Newsletter
“…you are essential in spreading peace and teaching others to write a new chapter in their book, one focused on what truly matters—LOVE.”
-Dra. Nidia Medina, CEO, Hispanic Family Counseling, Inc.
Reflection February 2025
There is a well-known proverb that has always captured my attention:
"Never let love and truth leave you; keep them close around your neck and write them in the book of your heart.
It is interesting because love itself can overcome everything, and at the same time, it can be that voice that inspires and motivates you to always walk in truth—that is, to be honest, first and foremost, with yourself. I believe this is why the proverb suggests, "keep them close around your neck," meaning to adorn yourself with them. And what impacts me even more is how it describes the heart as "a book."
I invite you to take a moment, to pause, observe your surroundings, and perceive with all five senses the physical space you are in. Take a deep breath. Now, visualize your heart as a book. What do you see there? What do you focus on first? What title would you give your book? What color are its pages? How many chapters does it have? How do its pages smell? What is the size and texture of your book?
I am sure that, just like me, you will find difficult, uncertain, and complicated chapters, and perhaps even a pleasant one. But what if, instead of dwelling on them, you choose to focus on adding a new chapter? A chapter you have never written before—one that highlights your worth, your strengths, your achievements (starting with the smallest ones), the beauty of the simple things around you, and ends with gratitude.
Now that you have begun writing your new chapter, I want you to know that you are essential in spreading peace and teaching others to write a new chapter in their book, one focused on what truly matters—LOVE.
You make the difference!
AFSP’s Advocacy Action Day in Tallahassee, FL
Dr. Medina, CEO of Hispanic Family Counseling, and therapist Nikos Figueroa attended the Behavioral Health Day in Tallahassee, Florida, alongside the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), a key event focused on advancing life-saving mental health policies.
Together with advocates and community leaders, they met with legislators to promote greater access to mental health resources, suicide prevention education, and support for those in need.
At Hispanic Family Counseling, we reaffirm our commitment to the community and will continue to support initiatives that create a positive impact on mental health. 💙✨
A Weekend of Learning, Inspiration and Recognition
This past weekend, the Puerto Rico Chapter of AFSP had the honor of participating in the Chapter Leaders Conference in Houston, Texas.
These were enriching days, full of stories, testimonies, learning and fellowship, reminding us of the importance of our mission in suicide prevention.
Our president, Denisse Lamas, shared her powerful personal story, inspiring everyone present with her commitment and dedication to the cause.
A special recognition for Puerto Rico
To close with a flourish, the Puerto Rico chapter received the prestigious "Barb Mares Perseverance Award", a recognition of the effort, dedication and impact of our team.
Barb Mares, who faced the devastating loss of her daughters to suicide, transformed her pain into action, becoming a tireless leader at AFSP. His legacy lives on in each of us, guiding us on this path of hope and prevention.
This award is a reflection of the collective effort and strength of Puerto Rico. We continue forward, with more motivation than ever, to continue our work and provide support to those who need it.
Thank you to all who make this work possible!
Out of the Dark Walk, Orlando AFSP
Recently, #HispaFam and hundreds of others gathered in Baldwin Park, Orlando, for the 18th Annual Out of the Dark Walk, organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Orlando chapter.
It was a day full of hope and unity, where we reaffirmed that together we can make a difference in the fight for mental health. Each step taken was a symbol of support, love and strength for those who have been affected by suicide.
Our sincere thanks to the volunteers and organizers who made this event possible. Let's continue moving towards a world with more awareness, support and compassion.
Soul Shop's pilot program for Hispanics was a success!
We are excited to share that 27 people were certified in this much-needed initiative for our faith communities. Thank you, Puerto Rico , for the incredible reception and for the valuable feedback that will help us continue to improve!
This is just the beginning. We remain committed to equipping more people to address suicide in our communities with compassion and hope.
We would like to sincerely thank Lechonera Otero for the delicious lunch and the Metropolitan Christian Church Disciples of Christ for providing us with their facilities for this event.
Community and Research: Understanding Suicide Perception in Elderly Puerto Ricans
Thanks to the Disciples of Christ Church in Barrio Nuevo for providing us with the facilities to conduct two focus groups as part of a collaborative research project with #MichiganStateUniversity. This research addresses the issue of the perception of suicide in elderly Puerto Ricans.
Commitment to suicide prevention
Our president, Denisse Centeno Lamas, had the honor of participating in the annual board meeting of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Puerto Rico Chapter. During this meeting, goals and objectives for the year 2025 were defined, reaffirming our commitment to prevention, awareness, and support for those facing challenges in their mental health.
We continue to work in collaboration with key organizations to strengthen initiatives that promote well-being and hope in our community.
If you want to learn more about our work and impact on communities, follow us on our social media platforms.
➡️ Read the new blog post: Cultivating Self-Love: Essential Self-Care Practices for a Fulfilling Life
February is the month of love, but let’s not forget the most important kind—self-love. While we often focus on showing love to others, prioritizing ourselves is just as essential. Self-love isn’t selfish; it’s the foundation of emotional well-being, resilience, and overall happiness.
At Hispanic Family Counseling, we understand that self-care is an act of love toward yourself. This February and always, we encourage you to embrace practices that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Here are some powerful ways to practice self-care for self-love:
1. Speak Kindly to Yourself
Your inner dialogue shapes your reality. Instead of self-criticism, practice positive affirmations like:
💖 I am worthy of love and happiness.
💖 I am doing my best, and that is enough.
💖 I deserve to take care of myself.
2. Set Boundaries and Honor Your Needs
Loving yourself means protecting your time, energy, and emotions. Say no to what drains you and yes to what fulfills you. Set healthy boundaries with work, relationships, and social commitments.
3. Nourish Your Body with Care
Your body is your home—treat it with love!
✔ Eat nourishing foods that make you feel good.
✔ Stay hydrated and move your body with joy (walks, dancing, stretching).
✔ Prioritize sleep to recharge your mind and emotions.
4. Embrace Rest Without Guilt
Rest is productive! Whether it's a quiet morning with coffee, a nap, or simply doing nothing for a while, your body and mind deserve a break. Give yourself permission to pause.
5. Engage in Activities That Bring You Joy
Reconnect with what makes you happy! Whether it’s painting, reading, playing music, or journaling, engaging in activities you love is a great way to nurture your spirit.
6. Surround Yourself with Positive and Supportive People
The energy you allow into your life impacts your well-being. Choose relationships that uplift, encourage, and celebrate you. If certain relationships bring stress or negativity, consider creating some distance.
7. Seek Professional Support When Needed
Self-love includes recognizing when you need help. Therapy and counseling are powerful tools for emotional healing, clarity, and growth. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
8. Practice Gratitude for Yourself
Take a moment each day to appreciate your efforts, resilience, and growth. You are constantly evolving, and every step forward—no matter how small—is worth celebrating.
💛 This February and always, commit to loving yourself as deeply as you love others.
Self-care is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for a balanced, fulfilling life. Let’s make self-love a priority today and every day.
💬 What is one self-care practice you will commit to this month?
🌿 Need support? Hispanic Family Counseling is here for you. Reach out to us to learn more about our services and how we can help you on your self-love journey.
Written by : Sheila Burgos
Yoly Santana, CBHCM - Targeted Case Manager
Yoly was born and raised in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. She graduated in 2003 with a bachelor's degree as a speech therapist, which she has practiced for the past 20 years. In 2020, she earned a Master's in Health Management and is certified as a Case Manager. She enjoys serving and helping people and being part of the evolution and progress of her clients. In addition, Yoly likes to learn and hopes to achieve many other professional goals in the next 5 years.
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