Ερωτήσεις και απαντήσεις με τον Juan David García González σχετικά με την κοινότητα και την ψυχική υγεία των ανδρών

Iguality Voices is a new series that highlights personal mental health stories from the Iguality community—volunteers, ambassadors, and those who’ve been impacted by our work. Each story offers a glimpse into someone’s life: their experiences, their challenges, and what being part of Iguality means to them. By sharing a piece of their journey, contributors help break stigma and foster understanding. Together, these stories build a larger picture of what it means to care—for ourselves, for each other, and for a future where peace of mind is possible for all.

Juan David, tell us a little about how and why you first connected with Iguality?
About a year ago, I was going through a lot: challenges at work, a breakup, some family pressures. Everything was happening at the same time and I felt quite alone. Even when you have friends, you can still feel like you’re carrying everything by yourself.

That’s when I thought, “Okay, I need help.”

I saw that Iguality was screening a documentary about men’s mental health and, feeling it was relevant to my situation, I decided to attend. I had met Vincent (Founder and Coordinator of Iguality) before through another NGO he worked with, and when I saw him at the event, it just felt like perfect timing. It felt like I’d knocked on the door, and someone was there.

What kind of support did you receive through Iguality?

I contacted Iguality and I went through the application process to receive mental health support. They asked a few questions about my situation—why I needed support, about my financial situation—and then they matched me with a volunteer. I received 15 therapy sessions, one per week.

Those sessions helped me a lot. I could feel the change, little by little, each week. Just being able to talk to someone, and be heard, made a huge difference.

Tell us about your move to Spain and how it impacted your mental health journey?

When I first came to Spain from Colombia seven years ago I completely fell in-love. I was here to spend just a weekend but realised immediately: ‘Oh, this is where I want to live’. I returned home just to pack and moved here shortly after. Even though I love living here, it was hard at times. When I first arrived I had no network, and couldn’t validate my degree. I had to start over—doing whatever work I could find. Mostly physical jobs like construction or cleaning.

Because I was so happy to be here, I welcomed these experiences as part of the challenge. But it wasn’t always easy. It can make you question who you are and where you belong. Especially when you’re away from your friends, family, culture, and systems of support. You can feel like you’re really on your own. That’s why the spaces and communities like Iguality offers are so important. Meeting people who help you feel included can help you find community and your place in it.

What does mental health mean to you?

Mental health is a really important part of life and something we often forget as men. Especially as men from Latin culture, there’s pressure to always be strong. You’re not taught to talk about emotions or feel vulnerable. But we’re human. We can cry, we can feel love, sadness—whatever it is, it’s okay.

Because I grew up surrounded by women, I’ve always been in touch with that side of myself and know how to be vulnerable and say when I need help. Still, it’s not easy.

Good mental health means giving yourself the tools to face challenges. It means being able to build relationships, to feel strong, but also to ask for help when you need it.

How has the support from Iguality impacted you and your relationships with others?

A lot. I think one of the biggest things Iguality taught me was how to listen. Before, I might try to fix things too quickly or offer advice. Now, I’ve learned that sometimes people just need space to talk. You just need to be there and really hear them.

Now my friends, especially my male friends, open up to me. And I think it’s because they feel safe. They feel understood. I’m not trying to tell them what to do. I just listen.

So it’s changed how you relate to other people?

Yes. It’s helped me become more open, but also more aware of other people’s needs and boundaries, as well as my own. I’ve started to build a community around me–based on who I want to be and who I want around me–but now I can also feel at peace on my own. I know that I don’t have to be there for others all the time but when I am, I want to show up with presence and care.

How would you describe the role that Iguality has played in your life?

When I think of Iguality the word that comes to mind is gratitude. I knocked on the door, and someone was there. Now I want to give something back. Even if it’s just a small part, I’m always trying to give a little to others. I’ve joined some of the Iguality sport activities now—hiking, football and running. I try to welcome new people the way I was welcomed. That small act can change someone’s whole experience.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about what you’ve learned from this process?

I’ve learned that real change happens when people share what they’ve been through. When you go through something, and you learn from it, then you can pass that on. That’s what I’m trying to do. I’m still learning—but I want to be part of that cycle of support and growth.