The HOPE Project (Edited)- Issue 1

Volume 1: Issue 01 Feb 2024

The Hope Project.

The Hope Project is a youth-led non-profit organization founded in 2023 with the mission to break the stigma surrounding mental health in rural India.

The magazine was founded by individuals who believe that print is still alive and recognized a gap in design and mental health magazines. Our vision is to focus the magazine on open discussions, some of which may be anonymized for the comfort of the writers. We aim to amplify the loud voices in our heads, ensuring that they are heard and seen. Through this, we hope to bring comfort and remind everyone that they are not alone in their journey of life.

We are here to share the load.

CONTENTS. Interview With Ally Zlatar- Mental Health Advocate & Artist ...................................................03 The Writer’s Prayer- Ria Nouri ...............................................................................................09 Decoding PTSD to some degree ...........................................................................................11 NORMAL?..............................................................................................................................13 Teentalk..................................................................................................................................16 The Handwritten Letter Project...............................................................................................20 Book Review- Aysha...............................................................................................................22 Viva La Vida............................................................................................................................24 Grief Is Just Love With No Place To Go.................................................................................26

@__thehopeproject__

thehopeproject2023@gmail.com

H.O.P.E

03 | FEB 2024

Q.

Art often sparks conversation - if your artworks could initiate a conversation with the world, What essential messages or dialogues do you hope they would prompt especially considering mental health and the artist’s journey?

If my artworks could initiate a conversation with the world, I hope they would encourage more meaningful dialogues with healthcare practitioners. Mental health discussions should be centered on the individual's unique experiences and needs, fostering a collaborative approach to treatment and support. We must move away from tokenizing patients and instead, treat them as active participants in their care. Secondly, my art seeks to challenge the misconception that being unwell means one is unable to contribute to society. On the contrary, individuals facing mental health challenges possess valuable perspectives and talents that can drive positive change. Art is not merely an accessory but can stand at the forefront of our efforts to create a more empathetic and inclusive world.

Creating art therapeutic t delve into, co process the e were coursin

HOPE | 03

Q. Art can be a powerful tool for social change how do you envision the starving artist foundation influencing societal perceptions mental health and challenging stereotypes surrounding artists and mental well being?

Q. Your journey has been marked by remarkable vulnerability. How do you balance being open about your experiences while also preserving a sense of privacy and personal boundary in the public eye?

I definitely agree, when I started The Starving Artist in 2017, it aimed to be a dynamic initiative at the intersection of art, activism, and academia, dedicated to empowering individuals through creative expression while challenging societal perceptions and stereotypes surrounding artists' mental wellbeing. Our approach prioritizes authentic and vulnerable engagement, encouraging individuals to explore their own experiences and creatively express them. We champion emerging voices from the creative arts and provide a platform for collaboration and transformation, covering diverse topics such as mental well-being, eating disorders, women's rights, migrant experiences, and climate anxiety through exhibitions, publications, workshops, and more. What is incredibly important to us is that we offer diverse support and platforms such as reflection cards to support better mental and emotional well-being and invite individuals to participate in open calls and explore our exhibitions. The Starving Artist continues to try to highlight the neglected voices and conversations through the power of creative voices.

For myself, I still struggle with this as I often pour my heart out, but by prioritise what stories/art is most important to share that align with my mission and purpose. I also strive to take time to reflect on my motives before opening up.

Clear boundaries help protect my emotional well-being, ensuring some aspects remain private. Also, it is incredibly cliche but regular self-care and support from trusted individuals aid in managing the emotional impact of sharing. Another way is to always find and gravitate to sharing your voice in safe spaces. When feeling and sharing vulnerable aspects of ourselves it makes it so much more supportive and easier.

became my tool, a means to onfront, and emotions that ng through me.

Q. You’ve emphasized the intersection of mental health with other aspects of life- could you give your perspective on how race, gender and socioeconomic factors intersect with mental health and artistic expression?

The intersection of mental health with race, gender, and socioeconomic factors is a complex and multifaceted landscape that deeply influences artistic expression and personal experiences. Take my own experience, I come from a traditional Eastern European family that was displaced from Yugoslavia, and this has profoundly shaped my experience with eating disorders. Issues of identity, belonging, and how my culture views food and gender roles have all played a significant role in my journey. In contrast, someone from a different cultural background, family dynamics, and a unique intersection of health challenges, such as alcoholism or diabetes, may have a completely different experience with eating disorders/ mental illnesses at large.

Each individual's journey to me is akin to a unique pizza, with distinct bases, sauces, and toppings. Our individuality stems from the varied bases, representing our upbringings, the sauces, symbolizing our unique psychological makeup, and the toppings, signifying our personalities and life experiences. Just as pizzas bake and simmer at different temperatures, our life journeys unfold in diverse ways, influenced by the intricate blend of these factors.

Ally Zlatar, artist and founder of The Starving Artist, utilizes her creative eating disorders through initiatives like The Starving Artist Scholarship Fun delves into migrant experiences, fostering global understanding through ar 05 | FEB 2024

I WAS BLIND TO MY ILLNESS

voice to advocate for change, addressing issues such as und. Her impactful "This Body of Mine" campaign rt.

HOPE | 06

07 | FEB 2024

HOPE | 08

09 | FEB 2024

To God, who reads this over my shoulder.

I pray with every fibre that is within me, In every sliver of light that you are kind enough to bestow, Just for a drop of honeyed relief.

I know You’ve heard my sorrows and plights, Even when my tongue refuses to speak.

Even if the Earth caves in, its soil begging to bury me, I cling blindly with both hands, clutching at air, fistfuls of the mist You veil livelihood with.

~Ria Nouri

the writer’s prayer

Every moment becomes eternity, And still, the heart soars with a wildness, like how the flightless bird is not wingless, and the dancer dies twice, still, eagerly we wait for when the clouds cry out in jubilance, “God has mercy!”

The heavens open with the pretty pittering of angels’ feet, and steam from the chariot of sweet-smelling blessings.

Sometimes, I can almost taste its fragrance, and so I testify myself before You. Oh, God, who reads over my shoulder, What I really mean to say,

I ask for more ink to write to You with, be it my own blood, sweat or tea

ars.

HOPE | 10

~Art by Sadia

DECODIN PTSD Breaking down the facts to some degree

Ever scrolled through social media and noticed all those posts tossing around words like 'trauma' and 'PTSD'? Let's dive into what they really mean and how to navigate this often misunderstood topic.

So, what's up with PTSD? It's not just some trendy term – it's a real thing affecting real people. Forget the typical stressors, we're talking about heavy stuff – war, assault, abuse, and major accidents.

Not everyone coming out of tough times ends up with PTSD. For many, things settle down over time, but for some, it feels like being stuck in a constant state of alertness. That's when you might step into the PTSD zone, dealing with intrusive memories, avoiding anything that triggers the trauma, feeling negative all the time, and being on edge.

Let's talk about seeking help: It's not about labeling yourself. PTSD is tough, but it's not your entire identity. Reach out to someone who gets it – maybe your primary care doctor or a mental health specialist. They can guide you to a therapist or psychiatrist. Don't have insurance?

11 | FEB 2024

No problem. Community mental health clinics or federally qualified health centres got your back.

If you get that diagnosis, it's not the end of the road. There are ways to tackle it.

Psychotherapy is a game-changer, helping you process memories, shake off guilt and shame, and reclaim normal life. Plus, there are some tech solutions like AI-enhanced mixed reality, letting you face your fears with a therapist by your side.

Medications such as anti-depressants can lend a hand too –. And don't overlook lifestyle changes – from tweaking your diet to embracing mindfulness and exercise, they can play a big role in bouncing back.

The bottom line is, you don't have to go through it alone. There's a path forward, and many have triumphed over their struggles. So, let's ditch the misinformation, get real about PTSD, and support each other through it all.

NG

Art by Nivesh

HOPE | 12

NORM Why suddenly burnt out? Can I go back to how i was before? These were the questions that echoed through my mind when I approached my school counselor, just a month before the dreaded board exams – the exams that would determine my entire future. From a young age, I was labeled as a high achiever, expected to act, talk, and walk in a way distinct from my classmates. This expectation ingrained in me a tendency to never say no, especially to teachers.

However, when Grade 12 arrived, and everyone anticipated my peak performance, I reached my breaking point.

The machine in me, once relentless in pursuit of perfection, ground to a halt. I found myself taking absences, unable to face people, and even resenting the presence of others within five feet of me. The irony wasn't lost on me – the perpetual people-pleaser now yearning to escape from everyone. When my counselor called me to discuss my progress over the mock exams, she noticed the change. Teachers remarked that I wasn't the same suck-up who never complained. Instead, I took time off for myself. It was a pivotal moment when I confessed, "I THINK I AM GOING THROUGH A BURNOUT."

Her gasp mirrored my own disbelief. "You?" she asked. I nodded. She probed further, questioning why now, just when the pressure to excel was at its peak – to make the school, my family, and myself proud. Could I go back to normal? I couldn't help but ponder these questions. Could I return to the relentless pursuit of perfection that led me to this breaking point?

As I grappled with her inquiries, I realized there was no going back to normal. Normal had been the source of my suffering, the catalyst for my burnout. The world seemed to shut its doors on me during that time. Getting out of bed felt like an insurmountable task. Studying the same answers I'd revised countless times became unbearable. Why was I sacrificing my wellbeing for a single grade, a college acceptance, a red ink comment?

When the exams finally ended, there was disappointment from others, and some were just glad I didn't get ahead of them. But within me, there was a sense of liberation because I was still a kid going through the world for the first time. The effects of the burnout lingered, but I realized I couldn't go back to who I was before. Normal wasn't me. Now in my first year of university, I'm discovering a new normal – one defined by self-care, self-compassion, and self-acceptance. And maybe, just maybe, that's enough.

~ tired pen

13 | FEB 2024

Art By Guzala

MAL?

HOPE | 14

14 | FEB 2024

Art By Guzala

HOPE | 15

Just as white space in design allows your eye to focus on what’s most important, the same holds true in life.

16 | FEB 2024

Teentalk.

Nestled in moves at revolution is not mer about ad misunders mental he mental he as episodes exorcism a health, as stigma. D Handing students t anonymou evident in bowed he fearing jud facilitators remarkabl

As the stu floodgate h was filled emotions. family tro dreams de poignant g overshado

Following accomplish merely s with a pro The pro responsibi especially chord. Wh with in re struggles?

n the heart of rural India, where life t its own pace, there's a quiet n brewing – Teen Talk. This initiative rely about spreading awareness but ddressing a pressing need: the rstanding and stigma surrounding ealth. In these rural communities, ealth illnesses are often misconstrued es of possession, leading to reliance on as the primary relief system. Mental s a whole, remains shrouded in During one of our earliest sessions, out post-it notes, we encouraged to jot down their anxious thoughts ously. Initially, the students hesitated, n their puzzled expressions and eads. They seemed wary, perhaps udgment from their peers or us, the s. But gradually, something ble unfolded.

udents began to write, it was as if a had been opened. Post-it after post-it with heartfelt confessions and raw . They shared everything – from oubles to financial struggles, from eferred to daily hardships. It was a glimpse into their world, one often owed by societal misconceptions.

g the session, our team felt a sense of shment. We had believed we were spreading awareness, but a lecture ofessor prompted deeper reflection. ofessor's question about our ility in collecting information, from vulnerable children, struck a What were we going to leave them eturn for their insights into their ?

HOPE | 17

Later, as I sat at home, sorting through the pile of Post-it notes, the weight of that question lingered. Each note was a window into the soul of a student, a testament to their resilience and vulnerability. It became evident that what these kids needed most wassomeonetolisten,notmerelytohear.It dawned on me that Teen Talk was more than an awareness campaign; it was about changing perceptions and fostering empathy. It wasn't about the numbers but rather the individual stories behind them.

It was about creating a community where everyvoicemattered.

I even pondered whether this simple act could indeed "change the world." But then, it struck me that listening is an act of love. And when love is put out into the world, it becomes contagious.It's what sparks hope after all.

18 | FEB 2024

HOPE | 19

In my home, we face problems in debt I feel anxious whenever my father comes back home drunk

My worry is the violence that alcoholism leads to in this world.

Our mid-day meal system isn’t good Our school roof’s leaks

20 | FEB 2024 The Handwritten Letter Project: Inspired by Craig Eldham's initiative, our magazine presents a space for anonymous letters from teenagers and youth.

HOPE | 21

22 | FEB 2024

“

Your Second Life Begins When You Realize You Only Have Raphaelle Giordano is a charming and feel-good novel of one journey from boredom to dissatisfaction to self confiden contentment, with lessons to take away and practise. The story around the life of Camille, a Parisian woman in her early thirties wh to have it all - a loving husband, a secure job, and a comfort However, beneath the surface, Camille feels unfulfilled and trap mundane routine. Her dissatisfaction with life reaches a breaki prompting her to seek help in the most unexpected place - a encounter with a mysterious and unconventional therapist, Claude Claude calls himself a routinalogist and shares some simple but im ideas with Camille to help her change. These ideas come from psychology and mindfulness and push her to find a new purpose in chase her dreams. As Camille starts her journey of self-discovery, makes you think about your own life and if there’s a way to fi meaning in it

Q.

One”; by woman’s nce and y revolves ho seems table life. pped in a ing point, a chance e. important m positive in life and the book find more

HOPE | 23

Whatisacuteroutinitis?

In the book, Claude, the therapist, tells Camille she has "acute routinitis" to explain how she's feeling stuck in a boring and unfulfilling routine. It's a wayofsayingthatherlifehasbecome too predictable and lacks excitement or purpose. Claude uses this term to motivate Camille to break away from her daily habits, try new things, and find happiness and meaning in life.

This idea of "acute routinitis" is a big part of the book's story, pushing Camille to discover more about herselfandgrowpersonally.

Howthisbookhasinfluencedmeandmylife:"This book has brought happiness to over two million readers, and I'm proud to say that I'm one of them.

While reading this book, I found myself relating to Camille's life. I couldn't seem to figure myself out, and I genuinely disliked who I was. However, through reading this book, I discovered a new sense of purpose in my life. I began to break free from a never-ending cycle and transitioned into a more positive and selfaware person. Change can be tough, but by taking small, gradual steps, we can find happiness in life.

By Aysha Currently, I'm implementing small changes in my life that have transformed me into a more optimistic and self-aware individual. Often, we find ourselves on paths that aren't our own, making the wrong decisions. One valuable lesson I've learned is that it's okay to make mistakes and even to fail. Now, I believe that failure is a stepping stone towards progress. While it can be embarrassing, and we may feel self-critical, it's crucial to understand that we are our own strongest supporters. So, enjoy yourself and be happy with who you are. Learn from your mistakes and keep going.

Don't look back and regret. The day you finally reach where you want to be is the day you're truly born."

~ Aysha Nizamudeen

24 | FEB 2024

VIVA LA VID Frida Kahlo, Watermelons, 1954

HOPE | 25 Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón, known as Frida Kahlo, Renowned for her approximately 80 self-portraits, stands as an iconic figure in art history not only because of her paintings, but also because of her story: a story of independence, emancipation, freedom, and suffering.

A D

"I paint self-portraits because I am the person I know best. I paint my own reality. The only thing I know is that I paint because I need to and I paint whatever passes through my head without any consideration," ~ Kahlo

In one of her notable works, "The Dream" (or "The Bed"), Kahlo delves into the theme of death. Portraying herself sleeping in a bed engulfed by plant leaves, with a skeleton resting above adorned with similar foliage and explosives, the painting presents multiple interpretations. Some view the skeleton as a memento mori, while others interpret it as a representation of Judas Iscariot, often depicted as a paper-mâché skeleton set alight with fireworks on Mexico’s Holy Saturday. Despite the varied interpretations, Kahlo appears to be dreaming of death, symbolized by the bed floating through clouds and the unpredictable inevitability represented by the explosives.

"They thought I was a surrealist. I never painted dreams. I painted my own reality," Kahlo explained, emphasizing the realism present in her paintings, including "The Dream."

Frida Kahlo’s life and artwork can serve as a resource for physicians who want to better comprehend the experience and dehumanizing consequences of pain. Her paintings are a medium to visualize pain and the effect of pain on the human condition.

However, Kahlo's artistic repertoire extended beyond portraits to include around 30 still lifes.

Despite being less well-known, these works hold significant meaning in her life. In his article "Frida Kahlo's Still Lifes: 'I Paint Flowers So They Will Not Die,'" Salomon Grimber explains that still lifes are often marginalized in the hierarchy of art, trivialized due to their association with the domestic sphere. However, for Kahlo, who spent much of her time housebound due to physical injuries and illnesses, her still lifes serve as indicators of her internal and external realities, much like her self-portraits.

A week before her death, Kahlo painted a vibrant still life of watermelons, inscribing "Viva la Vida" (long live life) into a centerpiece.

Watermelon, a fruit symbolizing life and abundance due to its ability to thrive with minimal moisture and its seeds signifying new life, serves as a poignant metaphor.

Considering Kahlo's brushes with death, from a debilitating 1925 car accident to ongoing suicidal ideations, "Viva La Vida" could be seen as ironic commentary on her life. In light of Kahlo's struggles with physical and mental health, her art becomes a testament to the power of creativity as a coping mechanism. It provided her with a means to express her innermost thoughts and emotions, offering solace and catharsis amidst her turbulent existence. Three years later, Kahlo's husband, Diego Rivera, also painted a still life of watermelons as his final work, further cementing the enduring symbolism of the cycle of life and death in Kahlo's oeuvre.

Yet, among the many dozens of paintings in her body of artwork, Kahlo never painted the streetcar accident that wounded her teenage body.

26 | FEB 2024

HOPE | 27

28 | FEB 2024

Shh, don't tell Scan this QR code for exclusive access to our topsecret vault of cat memes and procrastination remedies.

We never lie... well, except maybe about having those procrastination remedies.

If we did, this magazine would've hit the shelves in December!

HOPE | 29

anyone!

submit to be featured in our next issue!

Editors: Fathima Neferin Sophia Jone

from another point of view.

Yet I still dare to hope