Art serves as a powerful vehicle for self-expression and healing, allowing individuals to process emotions and confront internal struggles. One in five young adults worldwide experiences mental health issues. The anime Blue Period shows this through Yatora Yaguchi, a high school student who discovers painting as a means to handle his identity and emotional challenges.
Yatora’s journey resonates with many young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and academic pressure. In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) shows that 80% of young adults report stress and anxiety related to school or work, emphasizing the need for improved mental health support systems amidst pressures.
As Yatora immerses himself in art, it transforms from a mere hobby into a vital process for managing his emotions and finding balance. This mirrors real-life scenarios where young people overwhelmed by life’s demands find peace in creative pursuits like painting, writing, and music.
The therapeutic potential of art is widely recognized, with initiatives such as the Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) Arts Zone and the Art Relief Mobile Kitchen providing spaces for expression and healing. These programs demonstrate that art-based interventions not only foster creativity but also facilitate emotional catharsis, akin to Yatora’s experiences in Blue Period.
For Yatora, painting offers a way to cope with dissatisfaction in academic life. Similarly, art therapy has proven effective for treating trauma and stress. The connection between art and emotional healing highlights the importance of prioritizing art programs within mental health initiatives in universities and communities.
Unfortunately, in the Philippines, the role of artistic expression in mental health remains often overlooked. While some universities offer art programs, they are frequently not deemed essential, especially in academic-focused environments.
Establishing art clubs, workshops, and therapy sessions can nurture creativity while providing a safe space for individuals to process their emotions. These initiatives could prevent mental health issues from escalating, promoting a proactive approach to emotional distress. Entities like the Department of Education (DepEd) and local governments can lead these efforts, ensuring all young people have access to vital emotional resources.
Blue Period illustrates the societal impact of art in destigmatizing mental health discussions. Media portrayals of relatable characters tackling emotional struggles foster empathy and dialogue around mental health, particularly in cultures where such topics are often taboo. By presenting characters like Yatora, the anime not only entertains but also encourages conversations about mental health and resilience.
Ultimately, Yatora’s journey serves as a blueprint for how societies can confront mental health challenges through art and connection. Moving forward, universities, communities, and government agencies should prioritize artistic outlets and mental health programs. Collaborations like the Department of Health’s Mental Health Awareness Month with educational institutions can promote art therapy, while the DepEd can implement mandatory art programs focusing on emotional well-being.
Therefore, Blue Period transcends being just an anime of self-discovery; it shows the transformative power of art. By creating artistic outlets and establishing support systems, society can make a healthier, more emotionally resilient generation, viewing creative expression as a tool for healing.
