Sandra Rodriguez
Hope, Resilience, and Motherhood
Episode 184
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Sandra Rodriguez is a dedicated advocate for mental health, a certified instructor in Mental Health First Aid and QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) for suicide prevention, and a single mother who has turned her personal struggles into a mission to inspire and support others.
Born and raised in Rosemead, California, Sandra moved to El Monte at the age of seven, where she grew up and navigated her teenage years. During this time, she faced significant challenges, including domestic violence at home and emotional trauma, which deeply affected her mental health. Deeply affected by her circumstances, Sandra entered a dark space and attempted to take her life.
Her survival marked the beginning of a powerful transformation. News of her pregnancy gave her a newfound purpose, motivating her to persevere. With the support she needed, Sandra graduated from high school and entered the workforce, determined to create a better future for herself and her son.
Today, Sandra uses her experiences and expertise to educate and empower others in the mental health field. As an operations manager and mental health advocate, she passionately works to raise awareness, provide support, and instill hope in those facing similar challenges. Her story of resilience and advocacy continues to inspire, proving that even in the darkest moments, there is a path to healing and growth.
Instagram: @itssandradee
Sandra Rodriguez Takeaways
Sandra’s Journey from Darkness to Hope
The podcast features a compelling story of resilience and transformation from Sandra Rodriguez, who shares her journey of overcoming immense personal challenges. At the age of 16, Sandra learned she was about to become a mother, which proved to be a pivotal moment in her life, shifting her perspective profoundly. Before this revelation, she struggled academically and was at a very low point, battling self-harming behaviors and suicidal ideation. However, the responsibility of impending motherhood motivated her to turn her life around, catch up on her education, and set a new, positive trajectory for herself and her child.
The Impact of Environment on Mental Health
Sandra’s early life was marked by challenges, including domestic violence, emotional neglect, and poor coping mechanisms inherited from troubled family dynamics. This environment contributed significantly to her struggles with mental health, including self-harm and eating disorders. Reflecting on her experiences, Sandra emphasizes the importance of a supportive and stable family environment, which she lacked in her youth. Her acknowledgment of these influences underlines the critical role family and environment play in mental health and well-being.
The Role of Support Systems in Recovery
Throughout her narrative, Sandra highlights the importance of having support systems during recovery from mental health challenges. She recounts how her personal journey was aided by therapy and supportive friends who intervened during her darkest moments. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of how vital it is to have people who listen and provide help during times of crisis. Sandra’s work in mental health advocacy is a reflection of her commitment to being part of that support system for others.
Navigating Life after Trauma
After overcoming the initial challenges in her life, Sandra went on to build a successful career in mental health advocacy. She pursued higher education while balancing work and motherhood, earning degrees in psychology and joining organizations like NAMI to support others in similar struggles. Her professional journey is marked by a dedication to spreading awareness and providing resources for mental health, illustrating the positive paths that can emerge from personal trauma.
Connecting Communities: The SGV Experience
Sandra’s deep-rooted connection to the San Gabriel Valley is a testament to the powerful role community plays in shaping individual identity. Born in the area, Sandra shares fond memories of locations like the Montebello Mall, the Valley Mall, and local landmarks like Circle K. Her story highlights how community ties and familiar places provide comfort and continuity, even amidst personal upheavals. Sandra’s ongoing work aims to foster inclusivity and understanding within the diverse SGV community.
Sandra Rodriguez Quotes
I was 16 when I found out and I think about it, you know, it was him knowing that he, you know, that I was going to be a mom, that really just changed everything for me.
They want, that person wants that pain to be witnessed, you know, and they just need somebody to talk to.
I feel a lot of sadness for that inner child, that child that didn’t have that supportive family, that didn’t have that dynamic, that healing that she deserved.
I was very shy being very quiet, I’m being very fearful as well. Just very timid. You know and as I got older, you know adolescence came around and stuff like that adjusting to a new school with new kids that I didn’t know a different like kind of a different culture in a way, you know, I didn’t adjust very well.
Check in on your quiet kids too, on your more reserved kids, because there’s so much going on there that we don’t know, right?
Show Notes
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Music Credits
Intro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Stinger
Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library
Outro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Sandra Rodriguez
Montebello Mall
Montebello Mall holds a special place in Sandra’s heart as both her first workplace and a significant part of her childhood. It was a location where she spent quality time with her mother and had early experiences with independence and responsibility. The mall is remembered fondly for its vibrant atmosphere and the sense of community it offered.
Circle K on Walnut Grove
A staple from Sandra’s childhood, this Circle K was located close to her home and represents simpler times filled with childhood adventures. The store was a frequent stop for snacks and treats, creating lasting memories of family walks and comfort in familiar routines. Its enduring presence in the community symbolizes continuity amidst changes.
Valley Mall (Main Street Mall)
The Valley Mall is a significant part of Sandra’s adolescent years. This outdoor shopping area offered a place for back-to-school shopping and social outings, becoming a staple for her family and friends. The mall’s accessibility and array of options made it a frequent destination that evokes nostalgia for the community atmosphere of her youth.
