Embracing Self-Discovery to fight depression

In a world where it's easy to feel lost, finding oneself becomes a paramount pursuit. Recently, we had the honor of hosting the remarkable Sara Marco Muñoz, author of the transformative book "Breve manual de instrucciones para la vida" (A Brief Instruction Manual for Life), at Schiller International University Schiller Madrid Campus. 

She was the guest of honor at professor Jose B. Pinto’s  “School for Dreamers” series. These talks are designed to bring students references of real people who face a crisis in their lives, and manage to overcome it thanks to their passion, resilience and ability to dream big. Sara's captivating talk took us on an inspiring journey of resilience, self-discovery, personal growth, and the profound impact of cultural immersion.

Facing Crisis and Starting Anew 

Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way, and for Sara, it came in the form of a profound loss at the tender age of 18 when her mother passed away. Determined to chart a new course, she bravely moved to Barcelona, where she embarked on a journey of reinvention. Studying fashion design and starting her own clothing brand, MAIWAI, Sara discovered a sense of liberation in breaking rules and embracing her unique identity.

The Struggle with Mental Health 

Life took her to the bustling city of London, where she faced a different kind of battle. Amidst the vastness of the metropolis, Sara felt a cloud of depression begin to overshadow her. Overwhelmed and confused, she reached out to her father, tears streaming down her face, seeking solace. It was during this challenging period that Sara discovered the term "panic attack" and embarked on a journey of self-education, understanding, and healing.

The Power of Nature, Self-Reflection, and Cultural Immersion 

Faced with the limitations in finding conventional treatment methods, Sara found solace in the arms of nature. Regular visits to parks became her refuge, providing a serene space to clear her mind. Journaling her thoughts and experiences became a therapeutic practice, enabling her to unravel the intricacies of her emotions. Through this process, she discovered the profound impact of our thoughts on our well-being and the importance of confronting fears rather than avoiding them.

However, it was not only nature that played a pivotal role in Sara's journey of self-discovery. The transformative power of travel and immersing oneself in new cultures became another catalyst for her personal growth. By venturing into unknown territories, she encountered diverse perspectives, traditions, and ways of life that expanded her horizons and enriched her understanding of the world.

The Importance of Mental Health and Cultural Immersion 

Sara's story underscores the significance of prioritizing mental health, fostering self-awareness, and embracing cultural immersion. Knowing oneself, embracing authenticity, and accepting that we are the primary protagonists in our own lives are pivotal steps towards personal growth and fulfillment. By nurturing a healthy relationship with ourselves and immersing ourselves in different cultures, we not only expand our worldview but also gain invaluable insights that shape our identities and foster empathy.

Beyond the Classroom at Global American University Schiller 

At Schiller International University Schiller, we believe that education extends far beyond the confines of a classroom. It’s what we call “learning by living”. With campuses across four countries, we empower our students to immerse themselves in diverse cultures and gain invaluable experiences that shape their identities. Our commitment to nurturing future global leaders extends to their overall development, encompassing intellectual, emotional, and cultural growth. By providing opportunities for cultural immersion, we create an environment that encourages self-discovery, fosters empathy, and equips students with the skills to navigate an interconnected world.

Conclusion 

Sara Marco Muñoz's journey serves as a powerful reminder that self-discovery is an ongoing voyage—one that requires introspection, resilience, and the willingness to face our fears head-on. Through her story, we are reminded of the importance of prioritizing mental health. Sara concluded the meeting with one phrase she hoped every student would take with them: “Make yourself your best friend. You are the person that matters the most in your life”.