Living with depression and anxiety can be both mentally and physically painful, and even crippling. This is because of the negative effects these disorders can have on our emotions, self esteem, energy, and primary outlook on life.
For my Senior Capstone Project I created Blackheart. It is a multi-faceted company that helps to communicate what it is really like to live with depression and anxiety and the negative effects they can have on one’s mental health. Blackheart’s goal is not just to reach a benchmark for profit, but rather to promote the freedom of expression through music and clothing. My hope is that the brand will help to create an open and understanding community, where individuals feel safe in sharing their experiences with these disorders. This act of sharing will spread mental health awareness in itself. My sales intention is to donate 50% of profits to the organizations that help spread awareness as well such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
Through dark lyrics and graphics, I was able to pull myself out of a deep depression and face fears that were inhibiting my confidence and well-being. Creating Blackheart was therapeutic for me because it helped me to better understand what I was going through in order to move past it and get the help I needed. I want others to know they are not alone, and that through creative expression it is possible to heal.
Face your Blackheart to bring out the light within.
