May is Mental Health Awareness Month. First, if you are having a mental health crisis, call 988 for immediate support. Be sure to check in with yourself and be honest. I truly believe we have a mental health crisis going on, and it cannot be ignored.

I am transparent because I have seen others who hide it, deny it or have lost people that didn't reach out due to stigma, shame or embarrassment. If I can reach out after surviving near death experiences, the military and inner-city violence, then I believe anyone can. Don't be ashamed, be real.

Common Signs of mental difficulties:

1. Extreme sadness

2. Confusion or inability to concentrate

3. Excessive anxiety or worry

4. Isolation, loneliness and withdrawal

5. Increase or sudden use of alcohol or drugs

6. Increased anger or hostility

7. Self-harm or suicidal thoughts

Although not a replacement for professional services, Art can assist with wellbeing, mental spiritual and emotional health. An artist I would like to introduce some well-researched evidence that explains how art can be of use.

For one, it can be especially helpful for connecting with yourself and others through story telling. Maybe you tell a story through writing, music or an image, whatever you feel works for you.

Second, you have a way to create something meaningful. Whatever you create has the potential to last beyond you and beyond the moment and can be reviewed, when necessary, especially in times of hardship. I personally review my own art as often as I need to and even find ways to be grateful for the gift of creativity.

Third, art can be an "escape" or experience self-transcendence. Sometimes what is going on within is either too painful at the moment or too overwhelming mentally. This may often be helpful for those suffering from chronic pain or excessive worries.

Lastly, for those in the public health and art space, I recommend reviewing information from the University of Florida Center for Arts in Medicine. I have a certificate in the healing arts from the University of Florida.

You can start here: https://arts.ufl.edu/sites/creating-healthy-communities/resources/evidence-based-framework/

Also check out how the arts are transforming healthcare from the American Medical Association:

https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/ethics/how-arts-based-research-informing-and-enriching-health-care