At UC we represent creatives globally. For the millions of us out there, a large percentage of us will at some time or another have suffered mental health issues and challenges. This is no surprise, and at UC Clothing we firmly believe in the fact that while creatives are brilliant in so many ways, we are also more susceptible to vulnerability for a number of reasons. We thought it would be good to explore some of them in this blog post and hope to those who read it that it provides some guidance and awareness on the matter.
1. Sensitivity and Empathy
Creatives often possess a heightened sensitivity to their surroundings and a deep sense of empathy. This acute awareness can be a double-edged sword. While it allows them to deeply connect with their subjects or audience, it can also make them more vulnerable to external forces, leading to emotional turbulence. We know first hand just how much our extreme sensitivity and empathy can dictate not just how we feel, but how we approach everyday situations in life.
2. Self-Criticism and Perfectionism
The pursuit of perfection is a common trait among creatives. This desire to create flawless work can sometimes border on self-criticism. The constant drive for improvement, coupled with high standards, can lead to anxiety, self-doubt, and even depression if not managed properly. At UC we believe in focusing on the journey, the process, the small steps that we take to achieve or make the art that we want rather than the finished article itself. We know from our customers just how much this shift of mindset can change the way you operate as a creative mind in a much more positive and iterative way.
3. Vulnerability in Expression
Artistic endeavours often involve revealing a piece of oneself through the work. This vulnerability can be both liberating and daunting. The fear of judgment or rejection can weigh heavily on a creative mind, making them more susceptible to anxiety and mood disorders. We are building a community of creatives through clothing which as we have discussed before, sets out to give an identity. Our goal is to create a safe place where creatives feel supported through community and are able to share work in a far less fearful manner.
4. Irregular Work Hours and Isolation
The creative process doesn't adhere to a standard 9-to-5 schedule and never has done. This irregularity in work hours can disrupt rhythm and routine, leading to sleep disturbances and mood disorders among other issues like burnout, fear of taking a break etc. Additionally, the solitary nature of many creative pursuits can lead to feelings of isolation, which, if not addressed, can exacerbate mental health challenges. Remember, as a creative we are already programmed a certain way mentally, and while seemingly viewed as "unorthodox" perhaps by modern day society, our individualism is what makes us special.
5. Creative Block and Frustration
Creative block, a common phenomenon, can be deeply frustrating and emotionally draining. The inability to generate ideas or bring them to fruition can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, which can, over time, contribute to mental health issues. Pressure to keep up, pressure to produce, pressure then to keep up appearances on social media. One of the reasons we have our Monday goal setting on our Instagram stories is in order to remind you all that you can share your real thoughts and feelings with us, get them out of your head and create space for your creativity to flourish once again.
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