Episode 6: Healing Through the Arts
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“When I started volunteering at ChildHelp, I saw a lot of myself in the children there... I was able to tap into the feelings I had as a child and learned how dance and movement can be supportive in healing. ”
Melissa Dobbs' valuable insights about art and healing can be applied to trauma survivors of all backgrounds.
Fittingly, art comes in an endless variety of mediums, giving every unique trauma survivor an opportunity for a personalized healing process.
In her own words, creating art 'releases trapped energy in her cells', a lifestyle we should all strive for.
Countless studies have proven that creation of art is positively correlated to emotional well-being, which directly impacts one's personal health.
Nearly half of all hospitals in America contain dedicated art centers for the sake of the patients, regardless of their condition.
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Our next giveaway is finally here!
Follow, like, and mention a friend in the comments of the giveaway post on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Tumblr, and win one of two BEAUTIFUL sets of active wear from the aptly-named StylishAF Fitness! |
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Let's Turn Suicide Prevention Day into Suicide Prevention YEAR.
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Suicide Prevention Week is just under a month away - September 6-12. But a week is far too little time to devote our efforts and attention to one of the country's most colossal issues.
Approximately 800,000 people take their lives in a single year.
That's one life every 40 seconds.
These are unacceptable statistics. We need to take action YESTERDAY.
There are countless organizations campaigning for suicide prevention in honor of the upcoming week.
Start making your difference in someone's life at TWLOHA.com/WorthLivingFor/ . |
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Art: A creative AND emotional outlet!
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When you hear the word art, maybe your mind wanders to majestic Renaissance paintings or vibrant Medieval tapestries.
But don't be fooled - you don't have to be deft with a brush to create a masterpiece.
In fact, people of all skill levels are encouraged to take to the canvas.
Creating art provides an outlet for your imagination, but also your emotions! Trauma victims of all categories have reported decreased feelings of stress, anxiety, and isolation, and increased confidence in communication, confidence, and self-esteem.
The podcast itself is living proof of this idea. I created the podcast as an emotional outlet for discussing my struggles and stories of overcoming trauma and battling the stigma against mental illness.
With the often stressful conditions of quarantine, why not pick up a pen, pencil, microphone, tap dance shoes, keyboard, or brush and begin churning out personalized masterpieces today? The possibilities are endless! |
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Melissa Dobbs, Founder of Metropolitan Fine Arts Center, ChildHelp Dance Teacher
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Melissa Dobbs is the Founder of Metropolitan School of the Arts in Alexandria, VA, volunteer dance teacher at ChildHelp, passionate arts educator, child advocate, and dedicated mother to her three incredible children. At the age of 12, Melissa was sexually assaulted by a stranger in her home. After developing a severe eating disorder and attempting suicide, she was admitted into a psychiatric hospital for treatment at the age of 15. During her stay, her deeply held secret of childhood sexual trauma was revealed in a group therapy session. Since then, Melissa has been on a lifelong journey of healing, one that has led to a life changing transformation. Melissa has dedicated her adult life to preserving childhood by raising her own children in a safe and loving environment, creating a school for all children to thrive and grow as young artists, and volunteering for ChildHelp. Melissa shares her story as a part of her own healing journey and hopes to inspire others who have experienced similar traumas to 'Never give up; life is beautiful on the other side.'
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More on My Story: Trauma-Informed Care and Treatment
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My first published blog is now availabe for your perusal! Dig deeper into my story of overcoming lifelong trauma and learn the importance of trauma informed treatment when dealing with your own symptoms or even supporting a close friend.
"[My therapist] explained that I was not a bad person. I simply did what I needed to do to cope with life after my trauma. Realizing that something wasn't wrong with me was life-changing." |
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