[Geraldo Pagan speaking with background music] My name is Geraldo Pagan and I'm a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Massachusetts. From a very, very young age, I knew that helping others was my calling in life. And I truly love making a difference and having a positive impact on others. Being born and raised in Puerto Rico, I remember the emotional difficulties I went through for a long time due to environmental factors, peer pressure and challenges during my youth. It was through my stories and individual therapy that I was able to reflect in myself and become the man I am today. My personal experiences and the scientific knowledge I acquired through the years make me realize the great need for mental health services in our Latino community in Massachusetts. I lost a great friend who died by suicide. It was extremely difficult for me and this trial taught me a level of awareness and empathy for those who suffer in silence, the heartbreaking and desperate pain of suicide ideations, attempts, and sadly, death by suicide. Suicide is a devastating, overwhelming, taboo-ridden, and stigmatizing path for families and the community at large. And for Latinos, it can be a deep and silent source of shame and pain. Unfortunately, some men have grown up where we are taught to work and be providers. We have learned through generations and through society to repress our emotions and that vulnerability is a weakness instead of a strength. As a mental health counselor and community leader, I'm grateful for MassMen, which promotes awareness and empower working aged men in Massachusetts to take a step to feel better emotionally, physically, and spiritually. When we take better care of ourself, we are able to better care for everyone around us.
[Words on Screen] MassMen logo. mass.gov/MassMen