Latinas who participated in or felt seen by the “Mi Hija Es Muy Independiente” TikTok trend discuss what it’s like to struggle in silence amid families that celebrate their so-called independence.
I don’t know the TikToker, but I immediately understand the message she is conveying. I know her pain. I know the weight she is carrying, and I know how much she wishes she could let it go. In fact, I’m up late because I’m wrestling with my own troubles. I’ve beenI spent all my savings to buy. Yet when my mom calls and asks me how I'm doing, I say, “Estoy bien.” I can’t bear to burden her with the weight of stress on my shoulders. I’ll figure it out. I always have.
I wish my parents knew that I need their emotional support, especially now that I feel my depression and anxiety coming back. I was talking to my friend the other day and she told me, “You need to ask for help. Because if you don't do it for yourself, no one else is going to do it.” And I think she's right. At the end of the day, if I don't take care of myself and I don't put myself first, who's going to do it? No one.