Mental health challenges among youth continue to rise, and the power of creativity offers a beacon of hope and healing. In this podcast episode, a panel of experts discusses the profound connection between creativity and mental health, sharing personal experiences and insights that highlight the transformative role of artistic expression.
Understanding Creativity’s Role in Mental Health
The discussion opens with Sheron Edey, who emphasises the importance of creativity in mental health initiatives. The critical topic of how creativity can serve as a vehicle for supporting mental wellness was discussed by the panel, particularly focussing on young people grappling with their mental health.
Jillian Ritchie, a mental health advocate, shares her perspective on the accessibility of the arts. “The arts and creativity are something that’s accessible to everyone in some capacity,” she emphasises, adding how societal pressures often hinder individuals from engaging in creative activities. By creating spaces where young people can explore their creativity without judgment, they can connect with the arts in their own way and foster mental well-being.
Project Manager Sheron Edey and podcast guests Philippe Koffi and Kat Charles. Photo by Quinten Sheriff
Kathleen Charles adds depth to the conversation by discussing how creativity can help individuals step away from the rigid confines of logical thinking. She shared, “Creativity allows us to experience a form of problem-solving that doesn’t need any special skill” and encourages fluidity in addressing mental health challenges.
The panel highlighted the importance of play and surrender in creativity. As Koffi explains, “When you surrender, you have answers to your deepest questions. You feel a sense of ease and peace.” This theme resonates throughout the discussion, as the panelists explore how creativity can be a form of surrender that facilitates healing.
Creating Community Through Creativity
We also discuss the importance of community in the creative process. Jillian Ritchie notes that finding spaces where people can connect through creativity allows for vulnerability and acceptance. “When we can find that creativity, and then also find the community, that’s really where it can help with our mental health,” she says, underscoring the value of shared experiences in artistic expression.
Young individuals need to understand that creativity is a process. As Jillian points out, art allows for experimentation and failure without dire consequences. “The arts are a fantastic way for you to try something and fail without losing money or losing a friendship,” she explains, encouraging us to embrace the journey of creativity rather than focusing solely on outcomes.
Creativity is not just an outlet for self-expression but a pathway to healing and connection. By fostering environments where young people can explore their creativity without judgment, we can cultivate resilience and enhance mental well-being.
Sheron Edey, Quinten Sheriff, and Phillipe Koffi are joined by guests Pat and Storme Dillon, and sound technician Tyler Rauman
Youth Mental Health, Creativity, Mental Health Initiatives, Artistic Expression, Community Support, Healing Through Art, Creative Arts Therapy, Mindfulness.
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Find our guests here:
Philippe Koffi, Psychosocial worker – Mediator – Consultant
Storme Moore and Pat Dillon Moore
Jillian Ritchie, Director of Wellness and Mental Health Advocate
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-ritchie-506b6335/
Kathleen Charles, Counsellor, Creative Arts Therapist, Somatic Practitioner
kathleencharlescounselling@gmail.com
@kathleencharlestherapist
With thanks to:
Studio: The Community Development Arts Hub:
(TAG on socials)
Technician: Tyler Rauman
https://www.instagram.com/tylerrauman/?hl=en
Theme music: The Hypnotyst
Sheron Edey, Quinten Sheriff, and Phillipe Koffi are joined by guest Jillian Ritchie
This project was made possible thanks to @ELANArtEd and the Community Health and Social Services Network #chssn #artistsinspiregrants #elanqc #elanarted #TeachLearnHelp