Influencer, Hana Giraldo, opens up about mental health, says “I have my bad days too just like anyone else”
In today’s day and age, many millennials feel the constant side effects of social media. From comparing likes and followers to having to get the perfect selfie, it can often feel like a never-ending hamster wheel. Recently, Afterbuzz TV Host and mental health advocate Megan Gallagher sat down with Giraldo and got real about how the star, with her 757k followers, handles her real-life moments.
Gallagher started the Instagram interview by asking Hana about her recent collaboration with clothing brand, Guilty Minds. The line was created, “with the intention of raising awareness for self-love and mental health”, stated Giraldo. The line donates 15% of proceeds to mental health nonprofits across the country! The two teamed up during covid-19, to initially make masks, but then it led to “more conversations, designs, and ideas”. They ultimately made the first collection, with crop tops and t-shirts for both men and women! The line launched at such a perfect time, in the midst of this global pandemic. As millions navigate their new normal, Giraldo saw a timely opportunity to give back.
The interview then led to a conversation on social media and how Hana balances it. She said having a platform comes with pros and cons. She does her best to lead with positivity and kindness, however, she comes in contact with the occasional troll. Her response to negativity? She simply sends them a virtual hug and wishes them well. The influencer opened up about how many young teenagers look up to her and message her daily, “ I know how important my posts are, in the best way possible, many adolescents look up to me and look out for my posts every day. That means a lot to me! They know I’m human too and we get to connect on such a powerful level. To me, if I know that I helped someone else, that goes such a long way in my book”.
Giraldo also explained how she even needs to set daily reminders to hit the pause button with social media from time to time. Stating, “ I notice that the more I stress about how many likes I got or how many comments I got, my anxiety gets worse. Those are things out of my control, I used to get really worked up about it. Yet now, I don’t even check how many likes. If I were to change and adjust myself due to how many likes I got, I would be exhausted and feel insecure. I have to know myself first and be confident”.
The two ended the conversation by thinking of one positive thing they do every day to fill their cup. Hana explained that her self-care tip is to, “Sing and write music. For me, every day it’s therapy. I am from a musical family (her Mother is rock legend Pat Benetar) so it comes so naturally. I grew up going on tours, being backstage, and just living a very unique life. I wouldn’t change it for the world yet I love creating songs for myself as well as for other artists”.
*If you or a loved one may be suffering from anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts… please know that you are not alone, it can get better. Reach out to the hotlines below*
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
1-800-273-8255
Available 24/7 & for English as well as Spanish. This free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.
SAMHSA’s National Helpline:
or TTY: 1-800-487-4889
Is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish.
Crisis Text Line:
Text Home to 741741
This provides free, 24/7 support via text message. They are there for anxiety, depression, suicide & anything else you may need support with.
