#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek: Meet Caitlin Granville
London-based Designer Caitlin Granville gives her thoughts on Mental Health Awareness
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week and at Circular we are all for encouraging discussion of Mental Health. Raising awareness is vital, and it’s necessary to do so in a safe way.
Who are you?
My name is Caitlin Granville, I’m 20 years old. I am a customer service supervisor but dabble in design and media. I am currently trying to use my social media outlets to create awareness for mental health.
Why the drive to raise awareness?
Recently I’ve had many friends/family/random social media users come to me regarding their mental illness, because I have always been so open with mine and I want them to know they’re not alone. Unfortunately, somebody I knew took their own life recently because they felt couldn’t talk to anyone about their mental illness, I want to promote that we are never alone and no one should suffer in silence.
Is creation an effective form of stress relief? If not, what are your go-to activities to relieve stress?
Completely, some of the most famous artists in the world struggled with mental health issues and used creation as a way to release emotions. Personally I can only design when I’m in a good mood, I get too frustrated trying to create otherwise. I have always struggled with finding a way to relieve stress but recently I’ve realised going to the gym helps a lot, gets your endorphins running. My second go to stress reliever is going for a drive listening to mellow music.
Why do you think so many stay silent about Mental Health Problems?
Scared of judgement or not being understood. I think men stay silent about MH problems because they feel emasculated.
How do you think we can go about de-stigmatising Mental Health?
I believe the main struggle is with men. Stop using phrases that suggest men shouldn’t feel the way they do with a mental illness, “Man up” etc. More awareness that it is ok to share how you’re feeling.
What is next for you and your work?
I am yet to decide where I want to go with creating awareness for mental health, I just know I am passionate for helping others get through their struggles.
You can keep up with what Caitlin is doing on her Twitter, and you can see her latest YouTube video — detailing experiences with Depersonalisation — below:
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