"I was overwhelmed by sadness"

I was a woman overwhelmed by sadness, which eventually led to severe depression. I did not grow up with my parents, and I kept all my problems, sadness, and painful experiences hidden inside. I thought I could handle everything on my own, and I carried these feelings with me until college.

My depression became worse during the pandemic, especially when I could no longer go outside. I also began comparing myself to others and questioning my worth. I felt that I had no value because I believed I was nothing more than an option to my parents and friends.

There were nights when I would cry and wish I would never wake up again, feeling as though I no longer wanted to live. On other nights, I felt as if someone were watching me. I would hear strange, unfamiliar sounds in the dark, but they seemed to disappear whenever I turned on the lights. I became overwhelmed with fear and did not know what to do.

There were times when I could no longer feel anything. Even when I cried, no tears would come out. I would press my fist against the wall until it hurt, just to feel something.

When I moved to Pampanga, I found the Universal Church. There, I began to understand my struggles from a spiritual perspective. I also realized that I needed the Holy Spirit to experience the freedom and joy I had been searching for.

Today, I have overcome the depression and negative feelings I once carried. I no longer hurt myself, and I have learned to value and appreciate myself more. I understand that true peace cannot be found in material things, but in the presence of God.

— Flora Mae Saromenes