In 2017 I began working on a documentary photo project centered around the themes of trauma and mental health. I sought to interview and photograph people who were willing to share their personal stories. Over the past three years I’ve spoken with military veterans, survivors of sexual assault, victims of abusive relationships, individuals struggling with depression, addiction, and anxiety just to name a few. My goal has been both to raise awareness of mental health issues in general, and to demonstrate to people that we don’t struggle alone, no matter how isolated our struggles make us feel there are many people out there who can understand and empathize. There is more that connects us than divides us. It has become an ongoing project of which I’m very proud and will continue to work on passionately.
That being said, in light of the global pandemic of Covid-19, I believe mental health is going to be a major factor in the world’s recovery. I believe the toll of this pandemic on people’s emotional well being will be vast and I suspect those who work in the mental health field will soon find themselves at the center of attention, if they haven’t already. The mental healthcare system in the United States is drastically underfunded, with only a small percentage of recent federal funding being set aside for mental healthcare in the wake of Covid 19. Frontline medical workers are dealing with conditions only those with battlefield experience may be able to relate to. With incredibly high levels on unemployment and a devastating death rate, this pandemic will likely touch the lives of every person on a global scale. With that in mind I am going to be shifting the focus of my project (for now) to encompass people who have in some way, great or small, been emotionally affected by the pandemic.
This is an open opportunity for anyone who sees this and wants to talk. Are you a doctor? A nurse? A therapist? A grocery store clerk? Postal worker or other delivery worker? Did you lose someone close to you? Did you lose your job? Do you struggle with an issue that’s been exacerbated by the social isolation? I would love to speak with you about your experience and how it’s affected your life. The process consists of an interview and photo session, all handled respectfully, with empathy and without judgement. Samples from the previous incarnation of the project can be found here. Please feel free to contact me by emailing Roberto@CarryOnPhoto.com if you’re interested in participating.
Due to the logistical restrictions of Covid-19 I would prefer to remain in driving distance of the Hudson Valley for now, although I would be willing to conduct the interview virtually if necessary. All appropriate social distancing precautions will be taken during the interview and photo session, safety will be a top priority.
Stay safe,
Roberto
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