STUDENTS from Carmel College, Cleveland State School and Cleveland District State High School will perform to raise awareness of mental health and addiction issues at the annual Positive Mindset Creative Arts Festival.
The schools have students who are finalists in the dance, music and drama categories of the festival, which showcases the link between creative arts and positive mental health.
Carmel College year 12 student Taylah Jessen said music allowed her to express herself and was a positive outlet which benefited her mental health.
“If I’m sad or happy, I can just sing or play music and express how I’m feeling,” she said.
Having taken part in the festival last year, another year 12 student from Carmel College, Sydney Brand, said the atmosphere was one of her favourite aspects of the friendly competition.
“It’s great to see how everyone encourages each other,” she said. “Although it’s a competition, there’s always a positive vibe and spirit there.”
Carmel College arts co-curricular program leader Julia Spargo said the festival was a way to raise awareness about mental health among students and young people.
“It’s great to become aware of mental illness and let everyone know that they have support,” she said.
Hosted by Metro South Health, the festival is running until next month when the grand final event will be held at the Logan Entertainment Centre during Mental Health Week.
Griffith University students have supported the project by creating videos of participating schools.
Metro South addiction and mental health services executive director David Crompton encouraged local schools to take part in the festival.
“Each of the categories of the festival forms a positive creative outlet for people to showcase their artistic talents and express themselves in a friendly competitive environment,” he said.
The five categories are music, visual arts, dance, drama and media art.
For more information, visit metrosouth.health.qld.gov.au/arts-festival
If you believe you, a friend or your child is not coping or is showing signs of a mental illness, contact Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or Headspace on 1800 650 890.
