Note from the editor: CrossCurrents Spring 2003

CrossCurrents

The idea of a connection between creativity and mental illness has a long history. Thinkers as early as Aristotle have wondered why so many prominent people have been afflicted with mental illness - Michaelangelo, Tennessee Williams, Sylvia Plath, just to name a few. Since the Renaissance, artistic creativity has traditionally been linked to extremes of passion and eccentricity, to an access to the unconscious available only to those in the throes of mental illness. Creativity has also been linked to substance use. Various artists and writers have experimented with substances to access alternative realities.

Certainly the lifestyles of many artists have seemed to glamorize addiction. But the reality of mental illness and substance use and creativity is less than glamorous. Cindy McGlynn's story about the connection between bipolar disorder and creativity reveals that while the disorder can lead to moments of inspiration, it can also hinder creativity. Astrid Van Den Broek discusses how the music industry is making efforts to shed its sex, drugs and rock 'n roll image, by providing support services that help artists make music without alcohol or other drugs.

Regardless of creativity's relationship to mental illness and substance use, it is clear that art has proved to be a valuable therapeutic and educational tool. Abigail Pugh describes how art therapy is helping children who have experienced war and trauma mend their wounds and find peace. To highlight the upcoming Madness and Arts Festival in Toronto, Ian Kinross's story describes how various arts groups from around the world are using the arts to educate, empower and fight the stigma of mental illness.

This issue also includes a story to commemorate CAMH's 5th anniversary. Anita Dubey's story about the Integrated Rehabilitation Unit at the Queen Street site demonstrates how an inpatient unit has evolved into an environment that is empowering clients and boosting staff morale.

As CrossCurrents continues to evolve, we welcome your feedback and suggestions, so that we can provide you with the information and news that you find useful. Send a letter to the editor in response to a story you've read. It's your input that keeps us moving forward.

Hema Zbogar
tel 416 595-6714
e-mail hema_zbogar@camh.net

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