PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) can cause stress, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, disassociation, and spiritual crisis which can result in feeling lost and confused. Art making is the perfect medicine to help find, define and clarify internal chaos.
Color, symbol, pattern and image are tools to help see the turmoil within and shed light on the status of self. Even if the artwork is dark, ugly, and messy, the self is recognized in its present state and can be validated. This validation helps the self to see and accept the truth of the feelings derailing life. Then problem solving can begin in an honest way through exploration of art materials which provides a safe manner of expression and map of the internal state of self.
This painting was done after the passing of my parents and I was reevaluating life. Depicting places, people, aspects of self and things that gave me strength provided basic steps towards healing from the loss and provided perspective. This painting is near my desk and is often gazed upon in appreciation for where I have been and what gives me peace, all things beneficial to healing life’s struggles.
My book, Frida and Me, contains my artwork depicting the very broken and often undetectable self as a consequence from my bus wreck in Mexico. Each artwork became a thread to weave the quilt that became me through the healing process and a testimony of survival. For anyone struggling with PTSD and mental health issues, I encourage you to visit my website to learn more about healing trauma through art and learn about this amazing tool available to all on your healing journey.
Art Heals!

Just when all feels lost and no hope to go forward, look to the unending cycles of nature and find strength to keep on keeping on.
What can we learn about mental health from the natural world?

I am forever inspired by Cholla cactus. They thrive in the starkest environments, and even when they fall, they rise again and again. Cholla spines are awesomely beautiful as are their blooms of summer.
Its formidable spines provide an unbeatable enduring protection necessary to survive.

Our broken selves require this type of shield to safeguard our vulnerabilities. Without that, the brokenness becomes us and derails all actions we take. Do not mistake this protection for ‘letting others down’ by not being available or there for them. Without this defense system in place, one can become another’s doormat and channel for their agenda, not your own. This can lead one on an unintentional path not safe for an overwhelmed self.
Especially for those with PTSD, remaining centered in self is a challenge so take time to find your thorny boundaries and protect the paths that lead you on a journey towards a healthier and fitting life’s journey.
Keep on keeping on, if you fall, rise again…. maybe rest first, then rise again!!!
Nature heals!!