About
For over 23 years, Creative Visions has been using the power of storytelling and creative action for positive social change. We provide robust programming that enables impact media creators, artists, educators, and young people to spark innovative ideas, foster connections, and launch impactful campaigns globally.
#CreateConnectCare is our year-long initiative that empowers youth to share their stories, build empathy, and spark change around mental health and well-being through creative action. Storytelling and creativity are powerful tools for change. By sharing their experiences, young people can educate others about mental health acceptance and ignite a call to action.
Create:
Creativity builds confidence, self-discovery, and emotional well-being.
Connect:
Strong connections matter! It is important to have a supportive network of friends, family, teachers, and mental health professionals.
Care:
A focus on self-care promotes personal well-being and helps build a caring community.
Why Now?
The urgency to address youth mental health concerns has never been greater. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 7 young people aged 10-19 experience a mental disorder each year. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that as many as 1 in 5 young people aged 13-18 are affected. Alarmingly, in 2021, the CDC found that more than 4 in 10 (42%) students felt persistently sad or hopeless, and nearly one-third (29%) experienced poor mental health.
These troubling statistics highlight the immediate need for action to support youth mental health. It is crucial to invest in programs and services that promote mental well-being and create an environment where young people feel safe discussing their mental health and seeking help.
By working together, we can build a world where youth mental health is a collective responsibility and everyone feels heard, understood, and supported.
The Link Between Creativity and Mental Health
The average person has 60,000 thoughts daily; 95% are the same, day in and day out (Cleveland Clinic). Immersing in a creative activity produces a near-meditative state where the mind is engrossed, and one temporarily forgets one’s troubles.
Neuroscientists study many forms of creativity and find that
activities like drawing, photography, art, and music benefit your health. When a person is creative, the brain releases dopamine, a natural antidepressant.
Some of the benefits include:
- Reduced stress and anxiety Increased positive emotions and happiness
- Decreased depressive symptoms
- Reduced distress and negative emotions
- Boosted immune system
- Increased self-esteem and feelings of accomplishment
- Improved concentration and focus
Takeaways from the CDC
Adolescence is a time for young people to have a healthy start in life.
- The number of adolescents reporting poor mental health is increasing.
- Building strong bonds and connecting with youth can protect their mental health.
What young people are feeling.
- In 2021, more than 4 in 10 (42%) students felt persistently sad or hopeless, and nearly one-third (29%) experienced poor mental health.
- In 2021, more than 1 in 5 (22%) students seriously considered suicide, and 1 in 10 (10%) attempted suicide.
Some groups experience these feelings more than others.
- These feelings were more common among students from marginalized communities.
- In 2021, 45% of LGBTQ+ students seriously considered suicide.
- Black students are more likely to attempt suicide than students of other races and ethnicities.
Climate Change and Youth Mental Health
- According to a 2021 survey of 10,000 16–25-year-olds in 10 countries around the world.
- 45% of youth reported that their thoughts and feelings about the climate crisis interfere with daily life tasks, such as eating, sleeping, and concentrating.
- 75% of youth said that the future is frightening to them.
- 56% said that humanity is doomed.
- 39% said they hesitate to have kids one day because of it.
Youth Mental Health Matters
As a key partner in the #CreateConnectCare campaign, InnerView surveyed 1500 high school students nationwide to shed light on their mental health needs. The Mental Health Matters Report offers valuable insights into students’ perspectives, informing strategies and outreach efforts that prioritize their well-being. Access the report here.
