Creative writing often emerges as a valuable coping mechanism for mental health challenges. With many individuals experiencing situational depression, such as isolation, creative writing can serve as a means to connect and find solace within a community. Writing groups have increasingly become a famous avenue for individuals to gather, share their passions and support one another. In Brazil, where mental health services are overseen by the Psychological Care Network, i.e., Rede de Atenção Psicossocial (RAPS), incorporating creative writing initiatives into existing support structures could offer isolated individuals a pathway to community connection and emotional well-being.

Challenges in Mental Health Care: The Landscape in Brazil

In Brazil, individuals with disabilities are categorized as disability-adjusted life years (DALY), accounting for more than 7.5% of the nation’s mental health patients. Additionally, there are individuals classified as Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), encompassing a range of physical and psychological health conditions. Regrettably, the prevalence of mental health disorders has been increasing by 0.5% annually, resulting in 57.7% of the population experiencing such conditions as of 2023.

With more than half its population grappling with mental health issues, Brazil finds itself among the nations with the most significant challenges in mental health care. Despite efforts such as World Mental Health Day and other awareness campaigns, considerable strides are needed to address the nation’s mental well-being. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted the globe, imposing lockdown measures in many countries and exacerbating isolation for individuals battling depression. Among the people of Brazil, those residing in the northern regions bore the brunt of the pandemic, with around 84% experiencing depression or anxiety induced by isolation.

Strategies for Coping With Severe Depression

Individuals grappling with severe depression are frequently provided with coping mechanisms aimed at alleviating their anxieties. These strategies encompass a range of approaches, including breathwork, engaging in physical activities, practicing mindfulness and seeking support from loved ones or professional therapists.

Many therapists and mental health advocates endorse writing as a means to express and manage emotions, particularly anger or sadness, offering individuals a sense of empowerment over their narratives. The University of Cumbria promotes writing poetry as a therapeutic activity for National Poetry Day, encouraging students to explore a common theme and gather to share their creations.

In the United Kingdom (U.K.), poetry clubs have emerged as popular venues for isolated individuals to connect with like-minded peers and bond over shared literary interests while enjoying tea or coffee. Established organizations like the Poetry Society, which has been operating since 1909, offer platforms for writers worldwide to showcase their work, including through competitions. Notably, the organization has expanded its reach to publish the works of poets from countries beyond the U.K., such as Brazil, featuring poets like Adelia Prado.

Empowering Mental Health Initiatives 

Regrettably, the mental health campaign in Brazil has not reached as many individuals as intended, possibly due to inadequate funding for mental health services and historical reports of patient mistreatment in psychiatric hospitals during the ‘70s and ‘80s, which has left many Brazilians distrustful of such institutions.

Establishing a creative writing society in Brazil is an attainable goal. Taking inspiration from organizations like UK’s Poetry Society, a Brazilian-based website dedicated to creative writing, could gain traction swiftly and independently without relying on government funding.

 With access to the internet and basic computer skills, individuals can learn to set up and publish their websites, showcasing their literary creations to a global audience. Utilizing website builder tools like HubSpot, WiX, Adobe and IONOS, individuals can customize their platforms and even feature works from friends and family. This endeavor can evolve into a prominent creative writing platform, fostering community engagement and artistic expression. Pre-made platforms like YouTube or TikTok dedicated to content creation can be viable alternatives for those hesitant about website creation.

Individuals without internet access or those who prefer in-person interaction can distribute invitations via community boards or public information centers to promote poetry or creative writing gatherings. Numerous community facilities across Brazil offer spaces for both educational and recreational purposes, serving as ideal venues for hosting writing groups.

In 2018, an exceptional community center called Community Center Camburi was opened. It was built entirely from bamboo! Building the center from bamboo it saves Brazilian financial resources. Centers like Camburi can be used to serve as a place for creative writing groups and those artists can use their creative writing skills to influence others to be more environmentally friendly.

Conclusion

Through diligence, commitment and leveraging available resources, individuals in Brazil can unite around a common theme, fostering connections and reducing feelings of isolation as they exchange thoughts and ideas. Socializing can provide a reprieve from negative thoughts for those experiencing depression, igniting their interests and engaging with others, ideally leading to a more optimistic, vibrant and innovative future.

– Phoebe Vaughan
Photo: Unsplash