A couple of years ago I did a sketch a day for a Christmas advent calendar and managed to raise £600 for the charity Mind. Turns out the just giving page is still active so I'm reposting them and if you want to you can visit the page.
I'll be adding some new ones every now and then which you can find on our social media pages and suggestions are welcome.
We all need help sometimes. Unfortunately mental health issues are increasing especially this year and during the christmas period. I've suffered through tough times myself and know that not everyone is as lucky to have the support I had.
Mind provides that advice and support to those who need it.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.
Today's art is one requested by Charlie who kindly donated and requested something that sheds light on PTSD, especially those who are veterans of combat.
It doesn't matter if you are male or female, old or young. Everyone is susceptible to the disorder. PTSD can be described as a “fight-or-flight” response due to a traumatic event. When we’re faced with an extremely stressful or dangerous situation, our bodies shut down non-essential functions to focus on survival. This is a natural response, and it’s helpful in most cases. However, if the situation is too stressful, it can cause a negative biochemical reaction in the body.
There are many forms of therapy that can be beneficial, and it’s important to find one that works for you. Meditation, art, exercise, and other self-care activities are all helpful ways to reduce stress and anxiety. Join a support group for veteran's , or reach out to a loved one for help.
Talking about your experience and what you're going through with someone you trust can be highly beneficial. If you don't have someone you feel you can talk to, there are many online resources available. There are many helpful groups that can assist you in finding help. You don't have to go through this journey alone.
Help solve the puzzle of PTSD
These are a couple of charities that do amazing work.
From their website ..
For over a century Combat Stress have been helping former servicemen and women deal with issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. Today we provide specialist treatment and support for veterans from every service and conflict focusing on those with complex mental health issues related to their military service.
Veterans with these conditions need a specialist team made up of different mental health professionals to help them and we provide this. Our clinicians work closely with each other to make a treatment plan for each veteran that is unique to them.
If you are a veteran or are a family member or carer worried about the mental health of a loved one, please contact our free 24-hour Helpline on 0800 138 1619. Alternatively, text 07537 173683 (standard charges may apply for texts) or email helpline@combatstress.org.uk.
Thanks for reading, today's Christmas advent sketch....
#christmasiscoming #christmas2022 #adventcalendar #advent #mind #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealth