THE Nhaka Gallery in partnership with Women’s Gallery and Young People Mental Health Trust have joined the fight against drug abuse and mental illness by organising an expo which is set for tommorrow in the capital.
The Mental Health and Drug Abuse-Free Generation Expo will be held at Harare Sports Club.
The event will see various exhibitions by visual artists who have submitted their works under the themes of mental illness and drug abuse.
In an interview with Newsday Life & Style event co-ordinator Evelyn Gwasira said: “The event was inspired by increasing drug and substance abuse among the youth. Twenty seven visual artists have submitted their works under the themes of mental illness and drug abuse.”
The event aims to raise awareness on mental health while educating people on drug abuse implications.
“We want to raise awareness on mental health and educate people on the dangers of drug abuse and how it affects one’s mental health negatively. We also seek to provide resources and offer support to those who may be struggling with addiction and mental health issues. We are also engaging relevant stakeholders working on issues around drug abuse. Everyone is welcome to attend the event and entrance is free,” Gwasira said.
Tinashe Brighton Jakarasi, a visual artist whose primary medium is photography, also submitted his works for exhibition at the event.
“Nhaka Gallery had an open call for artists from over 10 provinces to submit their works under the theme, Mental Health, Drug-Free Generation. Since my work from my previous exhibition entitled Pieces which was held at Pikicha Gallery early in May was on similar issues, I was compelled to share my work to reach a wider audience to fight mental health issues,” Jakarasi said.
Personal experiences inspired Jakarasi to join the event to advocate for mental wellness and a free generation from the grip of drug abuse.
“I was inspired by my journey in battling with depression and anxiety. I believe that mental health has been ignored big time, but we know it is there and there is stigma associated with mental illness. The goal or the main message I hope to convey is to foster understanding, empathy and conversation about these complex issues while promoting the idea of a drug-free, mentally healthier generation,” he said.
Jakarasi noted that a critical aspect of mental health and drug abuse awareness is reducing the stigma and promoting open conversations adding that it is crucial to educate people on the signs and symptoms and available resources for treatment and support.
He encouraged those battling mental illness to have an open conversation about how they feel and invest in taking care of one’s mental health and well-being either at a personal or community level as a care giver.
Jakarasi said daily exercises create discipline and one must find special personal time to engage with family, friends, and loved ones as it keeps one connected and grounded. He said disengaging from electronic devices makes a big difference in improving one’s mental health.
Selected artistes will grace the Mental Health and Drug Abuse Free Generation Expo for musical performances.