Creativity and Wellbeing
Several studies have shown that creative hobbies, such as art, writing and music, can reduce and even prevent stress. You may find that, after a stressful day, enjoying a hobby can help you de-stress and even give you an energy boost. Being creative may also reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, and can help us express or manage our emotions in a positive and productive way. Especially when those feelings are difficult to put into words.
What is ‘StrangeThigs? Zine’?
Formed in 2017, strange things? Collective is Washington Mind Young People’s Project’s arty Sunderland-based project that encourages the use of creativity as a self care tool. Over recent years, they have produced a few collections of work through zines (mini magazines) on topics including; Closure, Loneliness and Progress (which you can now flick through on issuu here).
The zines produced through the strange things? Collective are a collation of young people’s feelings expressed creatively, through creative writing, poetry, photography, art and more and recognise what a cathartic and healing process it is to put pen to paper and make something. The zines aim to amplify young people’s voices, give them an outlet to be creative, and use their skills as self care tools.
Call for Submissions Summer 2023
They’re currently looking for 11-25 year olds to explore the impact of religious belief and/or spirituality on your wellbeing. They’d love to hear responses from young people of all faiths, and those of none, from photography to poetry, testimonies and self-reflection, non-fiction, artwork or anything else.
To help you brainstorm, here are a few points to explore:
- Prayer/meditation
- Life after death
- Suffering and hardship
- Identity
- Religious communities
But please don’t let this restrain you, feel free to write on any relevant topics! Please send your submissions to: ypp@washingtonmind.org.uk before 12th September 2023.
Keep an eye on our social media for more ideas and ways to get involved!
