2x04 Turning Adversity into Motivation: A Conversation with Dr. Adrian Mesa

In this uplifting episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Adrian Mesa, a dual-certified nurse practitioner and founder of AMP Mental Health, to discuss his powerful journey from personal hardships to professional success. With a background as a pediatric ICU nurse, an army veteran, and a professor at the University of Miami, Dr. Mesa has experienced the full range of human emotions—both in his personal life and his practice.

Dr. Mesa shares how growing up with an uncle who battled schizophrenia planted the seed for his passion for mental health. He talks candidly about navigating tough challenges like losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, going through a divorce, and still finding the strength to turn these trials into opportunities for growth. His message is clear: "Don’t turn speed bumps into roadblocks"—every obstacle can be the start of something new.

In this episode, Dr. Mesa shares invaluable insights on how to stay motivated despite life’s toughest challenges and why it’s essential to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. He highlights the importance of accountability, resilience, and self-care, especially for those in caregiving roles and those struggling with mental health issues. Dr. Mesa also tackles the stigma around men seeking mental health care, emphasizing why men often hesitate to seek help and how we can change that narrative.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, faced rejection, or been unsure how to move forward, Dr. Mesa’s practical advice will inspire you to take control of your life, own your failures, and use them to fuel your progress. Learn how to find empowerment in your struggles and why, in Dr. Mesa’s words, "You can’t pour from an empty cup"—self-care is crucial for anyone looking to thrive.

Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, career setbacks, or personal loss, this episode will leave you feeling motivated and ready to tackle life’s next challenge.

Join us for this empowering conversation, and don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe for more motivational episodes!