“Art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life.” — Pablo Picasso . . #RacismIsASickness is proud to be a part of #TeenHealthWeek2021! For this weeklong initiative, we commissioned Atlanta-based visual artist @__CRSNT____ to create an original flyer entitled #ShareTheLoveForTHW, to encourage teens and young adults to stay safe, to keep showing up in their truth and authenticity, to keep building bridges across differences, and to keep fighting for a better world. . . We also believe that teens and young adults should be encouraged to BE CREATIVE, even in the midst of a pandemic!! The science is clear: Being creative - can increase positive emotions, lessen depressive symptoms, reduce stress, decrease anxiety, and even improve immune system functioning. It can help teens be better problem solvers and make better choices for themselves. . . So, for #TeenHealthWeek, which runs from April 5 - 11, 2021, we are issuing a call to action to the Philadelphia arts community to help and support teens who want to take charge of their health, happiness and well-being. . . First, let’s start by showing them our love and support (in safe, appropriate and socially distanced ways, of course). . . Next, encourage the teens and young adults in our lives to (safely) pursue a hobby, a creative project or pursuit such as writing, acting, drawing, or dancing. What they create doesn’t have to be perfect, it just needs to get their creative juices flowing. It’s good for their brains and even better for their self-esteem. . . Finally, for those of us who have the means to do so, find a way to financially support the creative endeavors of a talented teen or young adult - there are so many ways big and small to do so, but find a way to make it happen! . . We invite you to follow TEEN HEALTH WEEK ℠ (@teenhealthweek) on Instagram for information on teen health related issues and events! . . More to come, so stay tuned! https://www.instagram.com/p/CNbKYakDplh/?igshid=13x84jdp1t2zd