Open Book

For this year’s University Mental Health Day, graduate Bee Yogasivam shares her work gathering the collective experience of mental health and creative practice that she developed while studying BA Architecture.

As a "COVID student" who started university primarily online, I saw first-hand the difficulties of interacting with classmates and communicating my needs in a virtual setting. The lack of in person face-to-face encounters make it harder to develop genuine bonds and seek assistance when necessary. It wasn't until I started actively participating in online portfolio check-ins and peer evaluations that I realised the importance of community in navigating the challenges of creative education. These virtual interactions not only offered comfort but also significant support, revealing the impact of collective empathy and understanding.

In the midst of conversations with classmates from my course and other disciplines, a fellow student and I decided to explore the profound mental health challenges pervasive in both the creative field and the design industry. As designers, we encounter a multitude of obstacles and concerns, yet too often, these struggles remain unvoiced. Many of us grapple with the looming fear of artistic stagnation, the relentless pressure to innovate, or simply the weariness that accompanies the creative process. As we internalise these challenges, we silently bear the weight until it culminates in burnout. While there are mental health support services available to all students, there is still persistent misconceptions about mental health that serve to perpetuate the cycle of isolation and exhaustion.

So, in May 2023, we launched the Open Book Project, a one-day post-box installation designed to catalyse conversations about mental health and creativity. Through this initiative, we aimed to gather insights from a diverse audience by posing a few thought-provoking prompts. Participants were invited to share their perspectives on a range of topics, from the dynamics of peer relationships within the creative field to the struggles of imposter syndrome. As the day unfolded, the response exceeded our expectations. We received an abundance of replies, each of which provided a distinct perspective on the reality of creative labour. One recurring topic was the striking contrast between the idealised image of the hungry artist and the harsh realities of creative exhaustion and anxiety. Many participants candidly shared their experiences navigating unpredictable schedules and financial pressures, shedding light on the toll such challenges may have on one's mental well-being. Despite these obstacles, there was a palpable sense of perseverance and optimism. Participants emphasised the importance of prioritising self-care, setting limits, and embracing the creative journey with enjoyment and determination. This shared commitment to personal well-being and growth seemed to act as a light amid the complexities of the creative scene.