Who is there to save artists and creative minds…
The question of whether Botswana’s creative minds are being left to struggle with mental health is a heavy one, with no easy answers. Is it a systemic failure, an issue of individual responsibility, or a combination of both?
The reality is complex, but one thing is clear: depression, anxiety, and stress continue to take a toll on the lives of artists, dancers, writers, and others in the creative industries.
Local Threads Magazine took a look into this troubling pattern: creatives facing financial instability and career setbacks often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse.
This can lead to a vicious cycle of addiction, compromised mental and physical health, strained relationships, and overwhelming debt. The pressure to keep up with the success of peers only adds to the immense stress.
While the article touches on the idea of individual accountability, “The choice to dust oneself up is entirely on each creative,” it also points to a broader need for systemic support.
It suggests that government and organizations like the National Arts Council Botswana (NACB) have a role to play. Programs such as the NACB’s mobility funds and arts festivals are a step in the right direction, but are they enough?
When all is said and done, players should propose a dual approach to this crisis. It can come in two ways: government and organizational support. The government and existing organizations should create a more conducive environment for creatives to thrive. This includes offering financial assistance, funding projects, and consistently engaging them for services.
At the same breath, it also speaks to individual responsibility. Creatives must also take charge of their own well-being. This includes managing their finances responsibly, avoiding lifestyles they can’t afford, and steering clear of substance abuse. The message is a difficult but important one: it’s possible to start over, to “rise like a phoenix” from the ashes of struggle.
Ultimately, the solution likely lies in a collaborative effort. A strong support system can provide the tools and safety net needed, while individual responsibility empowers creatives to make healthy choices and build resilient careers.
