The coronavirus pandemic has brought about a multitude of stressors and hurdles for students, impacting their mental health in various ways. To shed light on this issue, three master's students in different disciplines of creative arts therapy shared their experiences and advice for maintaining sound mental health during these challenging times.
Alwayne Spencer, Tonibelle Che, and Hanna Lee, students in music therapy, dance/movement therapy, and art therapy respectively, discussed the struggles they have faced as full-time students amidst the pandemic. From the lack of physical boundaries between roles to the isolation of living alone, each student highlighted the unique challenges they have encountered.
Despite these obstacles, the students also shared valuable insights on how to prioritize mental health. Spencer emphasized the importance of taking breaks to eat and create space for creativity, even in a virtual learning environment. Che highlighted the significance of movement, cooking nutritious meals, and enjoying the little things in life, such as engaging in activities like making slime. Lee stressed the importance of rest, not feeling guilty about taking time for oneself, and finding ways to express emotions through art.
The students also offered strategies from their counseling disciplines that can benefit mental health, such as creating personalized playlists for mood regulation, engaging in mindfulness exercises, and utilizing artistic expression as a form of therapy.
In conclusion, the students urged their fellow peers to talk to someone, engage in movement, find ways to express their feelings, and focus on self-care practices to enhance their well-being. These suggestions serve as valuable tools for navigating the mental health challenges brought on by the pandemic and promote a holistic approach to self-care. Remember, prioritizing mental health is essential, and seeking help when needed is always a valid option.