ArtServe to Tackle COVID-Related Mental Health Concerns Impacting the Arts Community

Dr. LaTasha Russell. Image courtesy of ArtServe.

ArtServe will continue its advocacy for the South Florida arts community by addressing the mental health impacts of venue closures and quarantine spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic on local artists. The Fort Lauderdale-based organization will host “Depression is No Joke,” in partnership with WLRN on Wednesday, June 3 beginning at 3 p.m.

The conversation will be led by clinical psychologist, Dr. LaTasha Russell of “Drive-By Therapy,” and Miami-based comedian, Chris Priester, who will offer their perspectives on the topics of loss, isolation, and depression amid the coronavirus crisis. The duo will also be joined by certified Therapeutic Artist and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, Nerissa Balland, who will offer insights into art as a method of healing and coping during times of difficulty.

“With theaters, concert venues, museums, and art centers closed, professional artists, working artists, and art educators have watched helplessly as their livelihoods have come to a complete standstill,” said ArtServe Board President Jason Hughes. “Facing adversities of income loss, issues with food equity, and other major life disruptions leads to emotional, social, and psychological turmoil and sometimes people don’t know where to turn. This forum is certainly not limited to the arts industry so anyone who may be struggling is welcome to join us.”

To register for “Depression is No Joke,” visit ArtServe’s Facebook Events Page here.

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