For Charlotte Creswicke And Mental Health Awareness
Reception July 18 – 6:30-9:00 pm
Main Gallery : York University art student Jenna Chiddenton remembers her good friend Charlotte Creswicke ( 19 year old Waterloo University student ) who battled with mental illness for many years and took her own life. Works by Creswicke who also created her own art will be included in the exhibition. Jenna Chiddenton hopes to create more awareness of mental health issues with this special exhibition .
Charlotte Creswicke was a junior national cyclist who was advocate for mental health awareness as she dealt with her own challenges with depression and anxiety. She posted this on facebook .
Charlotte’s Bell Let’s Talk Day Message:
“Let’s talk about mental illness. Let’s talk about how debilitating it can be. Let’s talk about fear and worry. Let’s talk about sadness and hopelessness. Let’s talk about sleepless nights and restless days. Let’s talk about tears and pain. Let’s talk.
For a long time, I have struggled with anxiety and depression. Last year was definitely a pretty low one for me. I felt trapped in my mind, not feeling like anyone would be able to help me. I kept quiet, and it almost cost me my life. I can proudly say that I’ve been improving. I’ve been working on opening up and letting people in, which is hard and terrifying, but necessary. Don’t get me wrong, I still struggle a lot. Anxiety and depression will be things that I will always carry with me, and I feel the effects of every day. But I am not alone, and I can get through anything.
Being brave, being honest, and being kind are so important to me. It takes bravery to be vulnerable to others when asking for help. And I’ve learned that sometimes I need to be my own superhero to be brave enough to fight my battles. I’ve also learned that some battles don’t need to be fought alone, and I have to be honest enough to both myself and others to say when I need help. Most importantly, it is necessary to be kind. Be kind to yourself and to everyone around you. You never know who may be struggling, or what others might be dealing with. A little kindness goes a long way.
I am so thankful and so lucky to have some absolutely amazing friends and people in my life who demonstrate constant kindness. Mental illness told me that no one cared, but these people told me different. I hope that everyone can have a support system to rely on because, without mine, I don’t know where I’d be.
#BellLetsTalk. Let’s talk about progress. Let’s talk about healing. Let’s talk about strength and resilience. Let’s talk about bright futures and sunny days. Let’s talk.”
It is hoped that more people will think about mental health issues while celebrating the life of Charlotte Creswicke.
