JULIA TORRES BARDEN

Thank you for taking the time to explore my life’s work here on my website. I’m proud of my professional accomplishments as an award-winning Journalist, former company Spokeswoman, Photographer and respected Hispanic leader. In each arena, I’ve had to work twice as hard because I have spent my adult life overcoming severe childhood trauma. No matter how much success I’ve had, I’ll always be that Puerto Rican girl from the South Bronx who survived a violent and traumatic childhood that included being abducted and raped when I was nine. As I share here in my TEDx Talk, that life-altering event is only one in a series of obstacles and deep, painful wounds I had to confront/process to then become an adult capable of pursuing my goals and fulfilling my aspirations. Just when I thought I was in the clear, I was in NYC on 9/11 and, shortly thereafter, diagnosed with PTSD. I hope you’ll watch my talk here…

As an Author and mental health Advocate, I’m now focused on children and adults suffering with/through trauma. I believe that raising awareness about the ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) movement is one of the most effective ways to educate about the long-term effects of childhood trauma on our physical health. This is the reason I wrote my book where I share the traumatic events that led to my formal Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) diagnosis and recovery.

 

I’m also sharing resources (above) featuring organizations and information that have been helpful to me. I want to offer hope to my fellow trauma survivors by sharing my story. Through empathy, education, empowerment and faith, we can help each other heal. Wishing you a peaceful and resilient journey.  NEWYORICANGIRL