Meet Caroline Haldeman | Mental Health Advocate, Writer, and Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Caroline Haldeman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Caroline, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
One of my favorite quotes is by the renowned French author Victor Hugo, which beautifully provides hope and resilience. The quote goes: “Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.” This quote resonates with me on a deep level because I have been through A LOT in my life, but I am a living testament to the meaning of this quote. As cliche as it may sound, any challenges or hard times in our lives, it really does always get better.

This quote honestly speaks to the human experience, transcending time, culture, and personal circumstances. We can all relate to moments in our lives when we’ve faced adversity, uncertainty, or despair, and this quote reminds us that those times are temporary. In a world that can often seem filled with chaos and challenges, Victor Hugo’s words serve as a great reminder, urging us to keep moving forward, to keep believing in the inherent goodness of life, and to trust in the power of renewal.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In my role as a mental health advocate, my mission is to shatter the silence and stigma surrounding mental illness. I firmly believe in the power of vulnerability and have made it my life’s work to create a safe haven for people to share their stories without fear or judgment. What I’m most proud of in my journey is the impact I’ve had on the lives of individuals going through struggles similar to mine. Several people have shared that my work has made them feel less alone, and that is a source of immense pride for me. Knowing that I’ve been able to provide a sense of comfort and connection to those who may be struggling is incredibly rewarding.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that my path hasn’t been without its challenges. Being a mental health advocate, while deeply fulfilling, demands a delicate balance. My primary goal is to help others, but I’ve learned that I must also prioritize self-care to be effective in my role. It’s a constant juggling act, but I’ve discovered that by taking care of myself, I can better hold space for those in need. I think this is a challenge that most entrepreneurs face, as we often find ourselves working every day until late at night, pouring ourselves into our work and our missions. I challenge all entrepreneurs to try putting themselves first more often and see the positive impact it has on your lives.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Definitely! If my best friend were visiting Dallas for a week, I would show her an amazing time. First, we would visit the Sky Lobby Bar at the Joule Hotel to enjoy some drinks while looking at the beautiful city scape. Also, I love history, so I would really want to take my friend to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, where JFK was assassinated. I’m also a basketball fan, so I’d be sure to catch a Mavericks game.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely, I’d love to give a well-deserved shoutout to Carlina Shotwell, a close friend and an inspiring entrepreneur who has definitely played a role in my journey. Her support, encouragement, and belief in my abilities have definitely played a part behind my success, and I am immensely grateful for her presence in my life. She recognized a talent in me that I might not have fully acknowledged on my own. Her words of encouragement and genuine enthusiasm for my work have not only boosted my confidence but have also motivated me to pursue my dreams with unwavering determination.

I would also like to shoutout my husband. His love, encouragement, and partnership have been the bedrock upon which I’ve built my successes, and I’m deeply thankful for his presence in my life. From late-night brainstorming sessions to offering a listening ear when I needed it most, he’s been my confidant, mentor, and cheerleader all rolled into one. In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, having a life partner who not only stands by your side but also pushes you to be your best self is a precious gift.

Website: www.carolinehaldeman.com

Instagram: @mindsovermatternc

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-haldeman-66b9b71b2

Facebook: facebook.com/carolinehaldeman23