How do we keep going when we're tired of existing? That's the question Rosa Villacorta, an author originally from Honduras and based in Thomasville, Winston-Salem, answers in her new work of fiction based on real-life events: "The Way to Stay: On the Weariness of Existing and Persisting."
Through her protagonist, Camila, a young woman who at first glance seems to have it all figured out, the author explores the reality of many women who suffer in silence and, in solitude, fight against depression.
“This book reflects a constant struggle,” Villacorta told Enlace Latino NC. "It doesn't offer clear answers or a definitive guide, nor a happy ending in which Camila stops suffering from depression forever, because that's not reality."
However, he seeks to emphasize that “the brave thing is to stay; the brave thing is to keep fighting,” he added.
You are not alone: If you find yourself in a crisis situation, call 988 to contact the Help Line for Suicide and Crisis Prevention.
Throughout history, it seeks to open conversations about mental health.
The book's main objective is to open up the conversation about mental health issues, such as "functional depression." "One of the goals was that people could first find themselves or see themselves reflected in Camila," Villacorta said.
“I wrote this book with the intention of starting the story, of talking about who Camila is, what she’s going through, and what she’s thinking, before delivering the message that this is about mental health. In the end, people are going to connect with her,” she added.
Especially within the Latino community, where in some cultures mental health is still considered a sign of weakness, the author hopes to create a space to break that stigma through conversations.
“I hope this book will bring that conversation to the Latino community and help break down some of the stigma,” Villacorta said. “I think the younger generations are already starting to break it down a bit, but I would like to emphasize the importance of mental health and encourage conversations within families and among friends.”
What is “functional depression”?
For Villacorta, the depression diagnosed in Camila, the protagonist of the book, is known as "functional depression," which, for the author, essentially means "having her life sorted out in front of everyone, but, in private, falling apart."
La The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) indicates that This type of depression, also known as “high-functioning depression”, is not an official clinical diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
However, it is a term that is frequently used to describe people who experience symptoms of depression, but who are able to function relatively well in their daily lives, such as going to work, maintaining relationships, and fulfilling other responsibilities.
In her book, readers won't find a diagnosis, but rather a story in which they can see themselves reflected through the character. More than offering answers, the work seeks to open a conversation not only with others, but also with oneself about one's mental health.
Personal experiences behind Camila
Villacorta not only wants readers to identify with Camila, but also to recognize their own connection with the character.
“There’s a part in the book where Camila finds herself at a point where she has to decide whether to stay on this plane or not, and I think I also went through that moment in my life when I was younger. I also faced that decision: whether to ask for help or simply give up,” Villacorta said.
Through personal experiences that influence the story, the author reflects emotions and decisions that, she points out, can resonate with many people who have gone through similar situations.
That personal connection also extends to his experience outside of the book.
Access to mental health services is not always easy
Reflecting on her own help-seeking process, Villacorta spoke about the difficulties in access mental health services in North Carolina, especially for Latina women. When asked if there are enough resources for this community, the author noted that Access has not always been easy.
“Based on my experience, if you had asked me eight years ago, I would have said it wasn’t difficult, because I went to a date “And they put me in touch with my psychologist, who was exceptional,” Villacorta said. However, when her psychologist left and she was assigned another one, she realized how difficult this process really is.
It might interest you: Where to get mental health care for Latinos in North Carolina?
“Now that I’ve had to look for resources, I dare say it’s not always accessible. They don’t always give you the information, especially regarding the financial aspects, because at the time I couldn’t afford therapy,” she added.
Despite this, the author encourages readers not to give up and, as the title of her book indicates, to persist.
"I think it takes courage to keep fighting, and sometimes we won't find the answers the first time, but that's where not giving up comes in."
The book “The Way to Stay: On the Weariness of Existing and Persisting” is available on Amazon.
On March 22, the author will read from her book at the Encanto Performing Arts Program Cabaret in Winston-Salem at 7 p.m., as part of a program dedicated to Hispanic storytelling. Admission is $25. For more information, Visit the website generationscenter.org
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