We're closing in on the end of Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when we come together to raise awareness and foster understanding about an issue that affects us all—mental health. Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a compassionate reminder that our emotional well-being is just as important as our physical health. In this blog post, I give a little insight into my own mental health and embark on a journey of empathy, support, and more insight, aiming to foster a kinder, more compassionate world where mental health is nurtured and prioritized.
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Mental Health and Creativity
I've struggled with sometimes debilitating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and probably a few additional but undiagnosed conditions much of my life.
Several recent posts alluded to the benefits of being creative on my own mental health. I wanted to say more about the topic of mental health before the month's awareness theme ends and we transition to June and another theme.
Mental health awareness, advocacy, and care aren't confined to one month a year. Mental illness doesn't recognize calendars or timelines. Awareness and the need for ways of coping are ongoing. No one is immune to mental health struggles and issues.
Just as my opening motto or mission statement says, I love to create and what I create is typically purpose-driven.
Dedicated to bringing beauty, joy, and comfort into the world by crafting unique, sometimes quirky, often retro, purpose-driven, occasionally engaging high-quality one-of-a-kind surface designs that can be enjoyed on a wide variety of products that enhance lives as well as the spaces and environments in which they are used. – Deborah Brown
The concept for the Gemmed Collection was born out of the desire to promote acceptance of imperfections.
My collections of designs for fabric, wallpaper, and home decor are intended to promote comfort, individuality, self-expression, and a unique style.
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My classic photography is intended to promote nostalgia and an appreciation for the past.
The concept for the art is to be bold, colorful, fun, often quirky, and feature stand-out pieces that are as unique as the spaces they adorn.
And finally, my designs and themes for my coloring stationery, coloring books, and coloring word search-themed books are intended for relaxation and stress relief while providing a creative outlet that may seem like child's play but is intended for adults. Creativity and coloring have helped me in my mental health journey and it is my wish to help others.
All of these designs and collections may seem disjointed and like I'm going down many paths, but they're really not. The common thread is that I approach everything with intention or purpose.
I don't create just to create. I do experiment with different approaches while I'm trying to find my voice or preferred style and refine as I go, though. Evidence of this especially exists in the evolution of my fabric, wallpaper, and home decor design collections.
I create to hopefully convey messages and options that represent positive or reassuring values relating to
- comfort,
- individuality when it comes to style and art,
- acknowledgment and acceptance of imperfections,
- acknowledgment of the universal need for relaxation and stress relief
And likely more I haven’t thought of yet.
This is one of the reasons why I promote creativity through my creative prompts. Society is in dire need of outlets that replace the mindless social media scrolling, binge-watching of television, and online conflict and hate that really do nothing to relieve the actual stress people are feeling and only serve as temporary escapism, distractions, and the tearing down of general decency in our social discourse.
For the sake of your mental health, divert your attention to more creative endeavors from mindless activities. Redecorate. Color. Find meaning. Reflect. Remove toxic people from your life. Embrace your uniqueness. Rest. Your mind will thank you for it.
And in honor of the theme this month, and an area of life most of us struggle with, read on for more insight.
Understanding Mental Health
Mental health is a universal aspect of human existence, and it encompasses a broad spectrum of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. By understanding that mental health is not a binary concept of “healthy” or “unhealthy,” but rather a continuum, we can begin to embrace the rich tapestry of our experiences. Everyone faces challenges, and no one is immune to moments of vulnerability. We must recognize that mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness but rather an opportunity for growth, healing, and connection.
Breaking the Stigma
One of the most powerful ways we can support mental health awareness is by dismantling the stigma that surrounds it. Stigma perpetuates misconceptions, fear, and discrimination, often preventing individuals from seeking the help they need. Let us create safe spaces where people can openly share their experiences without judgment or shame. By treating mental health with the same compassion and empathy we offer to physical ailments, we can foster an environment of acceptance and understanding.
Prioritizing Self-Care
In our fast-paced world, self-care is often overlooked or dismissed as a luxury. However, caring for our mental health is crucial for our overall well-being. Each of us has unique needs, so finding activities that recharge and replenish our minds and souls is essential. Whether it's practicing mindfulness, engaging in creative endeavors, spending time in nature, or seeking professional help, self-care is a vital component of maintaining good mental health. Remember, self-care isn't selfish—it's an act of self-preservation and self-love.
Cultivating Compassionate Communities
As we strive to build a more compassionate society, it is vital to cultivate communities that support mental health. Let us foster environments where open conversations about mental health are encouraged, and resources are readily available. By educating ourselves and others about mental health conditions, we can create a supportive network that offers understanding, empathy, and validation. Small acts of kindness, such as checking in on a friend, offering a listening ear, or expressing genuine concern, can make a world of difference to someone navigating their mental health journey.
Seeking Professional Help
While social support is crucial, we must also recognize the importance of professional help in addressing mental health concerns. Just as we visit a doctor when we're physically unwell, seeking therapy or counseling when we're struggling emotionally is a valid and beneficial choice. Mental health professionals offer a wealth of expertise, tools, and strategies to help individuals navigate their challenges and develop resilience. Remember, reaching out for help is not a sign of failure; it is a brave and empowering step toward healing.
Conclusion
As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds, let us pledge to be more compassionate, understanding, and supportive toward ourselves and others. By promoting mental health awareness, breaking down stigmas, prioritizing self-care, fostering compassionate communities, and embracing professional help, we can create a world where mental well-being is as cherished as physical health. Together, we can build a future that celebrates the beautiful diversity of human experiences and nurtures the profound connection between mind, body, and soul.
