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Mental health is a topic of increasing importance in today's fast-paced world. The pressures of daily life, social expectations, and the challenges we face can take a toll on our mental well-being. Thankfully, there are various therapeutic activities that can help individuals cope with and heal from mental health issues. One such powerful tool is photography. In this blog post, we will explore how photography can be therapeutic and healing for the mind.
The Art of Mindful Photography
Photography, like other forms of art, allows us to engage in a mindful and present activity. When you pick up your camera and set out to capture the world around you, it requires your full attention. The process of framing a shot, adjusting settings, and focusing on the subject can be meditative, diverting your mind from negative thoughts and stressors. This has helped me in countless moments, where I'm in the middle of a storm, angry, frustrated, hurt or in grief.
When you immerse yourself in photography, you enter a state of mind, where time seems to stand still, and your worries melt away. This mindful engagement can have a calming effect on the mind and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It's in these moments, where our brains are finally in a place where we can rationalize our thoughts and break things down into something that we can handle in that moment.
Self-Expression and Emotional Release
Photography is a form of self-expression. It provides an avenue for individuals to convey their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without the need for words. For those who find it challenging to articulate their emotions, a photograph can say it all.
Taking pictures allows you to communicate your inner world and release pent-up emotions. It's interesting because I can sometimes see in my edits, where my mind was/is by the mood, to which I am conveying and creating. When you look back at your photos, you may find that they reflect your state of mind and emotional journey over time. This reflection can be both therapeutic and healing, helping you gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts and feelings.
A Sense of Achievement
Photography, like any creative pursuit, offers a sense of achievement. Whether you are capturing breathtaking landscapes, candid portraits, or intricate macro shots, the act of creating something visually pleasing can boost your self-esteem and self-worth. This is true both for yourself and what you see as pleasing and good, but especially when you receive accolades, applause and recognition for your work; for me, this just solidifies in my own heart and mind, that I AM good enough. I AM worthy and I AM allowed to be proud of it.
I find that having something to keep front of mind, a goal or aim, helps keep that focus on something that brings joy, peace and happiness and allows me to find my way through the dark times, guiding me towards whatever that something is. Setting and achieving photography goals, such as improving your skills, mastering new techniques, or creating a photography project, can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. These feelings of achievement are essential for individuals struggling with mental health issues as they combat the self-doubt and negativity that often accompany such conditions.
Connecting with the World
Photography encourages you to connect with the world around you. It pushes you to explore new places, observe the beauty in everyday life, and interact with people and nature. This connection with the world can be incredibly therapeutic for those dealing with mental health issues, as it promotes a sense of belonging and purpose.
Photography also has the power to strengthen social bonds. Joining a photography group or sharing your work online can lead to meaningful connections with like-minded individuals who share your passion. These social interactions can provide much-needed support and encouragement. Even today, this rang true. A friend of a friend has been trying to connect with me and our schedules have just been quite crazy. Today, the stars aligned and we were able to do just that. Sharing our stories of where we come from, the things we have gone through and how, for me, photography and music have been the lifeline that has kept me afloat through many years. IT's these types of interactions that, day by day, continue to add up and fill the bank of positivity that we need to continue the push forward in this life.
Preserving Memories and Fostering Gratitude
Photography helps us capture and preserve special moments in our lives. When you look through your photo album, you are reminded of the good times, the people who have brought joy to your life, and the places you've visited. This act of reminiscing can foster gratitude and positive thinking, which are crucial for mental well-being. So many times, family members and friends may get annoyed or complain, "why are you always taking pictures?"... "do we have to do a selfie?"... the irony for me, is when days, weeks, months or even years later, those same people come to me, asking, "hey, do you have a picture of such and such?" lol It's not to bash on them, it's just a reminder to me, that even when people may not get it, nor understand it, what I'm doing is not only for myself, but for those around me. At some point, we all want to look back and reminisce of days gone by... hard to do if we don't have pictures and videos now, is it?? ;-)
My Conclusion...
Photography is a versatile and accessible tool for enhancing mental health. It offers a way to practice mindfulness, express your emotions, build self-esteem, connect with the world, and cultivate gratitude. Whether you're a professional photographer or simply enjoy taking snapshots with your smartphone, the therapeutic benefits of photography are available to everyone. So, pick up your camera and start capturing the beauty and healing power of the world around you. It may just be the therapy your mind needs. OH! and it may just be the therapy the person viewing it needs!!
PSA: Mental Health Links
Mental health support: get help - Canada.ca
Canadian Mental Health Association - National l A Mental Health Charity (cmha.ca)
There are many resources available in Canada that can provide you with free and confidential mental health support 24/7. Here are some options:
If you’re in immediate danger or need urgent medical support, please call 911.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don’t have to go through this alone.