Photo Voice Project

Life in the Time of Coronavirus was the topic of our last PhotoVoice discussion group facilitated at Northern Lakes. Members of Traverse House Clubhouse took photographs and wrote accompanying messages to reflect their experiences during the pandemic and offer suggestions for coping to benefit others. We appreciate their great creativity and willingness to share!

Thank you to Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA) and Northwest Michigan Arts & Culture Network for their support of the PhotoVoice project.

Hobbies, crafts, and other pastimes are very useful distractions that help relieve stress and anxiety.

-Dannie

Big Girl, my goldfish, was my only companion at my house in Spring 2020 during the lockdown. I never knew a fish could serve as a companion until I noticed her noticing me in the room. She would come out and watch me move around. I felt a connection.

-Kathy

Reality calls
Within tragedy are dreams
Fantasy is life.

I take with me from this pandemic many skills. Through it, the power of escape through my mind. Without art or my fantasy, I would be lost in darkness.

-Betsy Zeeryp

My thoughts flow like water currents in a turbulent stream. Maybe even brittle reeds in the wind, which may snap! Meditation softens these thoughts — allowing me to practice a unique skill of “Awareness”. I can go for longer periods without judgement, attachment, or aversion. Pencil strokes and breath are a healthier alternative to excessive worry.

-Dannie

Everything went virtual in 2020 and that brought both positives and negatives. On the bright side, we all learned new skills and were able to attend events we might not otherwise have been able to attend, like my nephew’s high school graduation. On the other hand, it is hard when you miss friends and family and can’t see them.

-Kathy

Cold, wet, dreary day
Isolation comes full force
We are now alone

This picture represents the family gatherings that were physically lost during the pandemic. Not to say there weren’t any, because we had virtual opportunities. But it also reminds us of the need of human contact and the loneliness.

-Betsy Zeeryp

This wind up music box plays “You’ve Got A Friend.” It reminds me how people have been cut off from family and friends during the pandemic.

-Dannie

When you feel lonely, or anxious, or sad, it can help to get outside and take a walk. Sometimes it is hard to get out, but it is always worth the effort. Fresh air and nature are rejuvenating.

-Kathy

-Betsy Zeeryp

We may have taken the ability to gather with people for granted before the pandemic but we don’t anymore. We know that our relationships with people are treasures.

-Dannie

These tulips represent new beginnings and growth. I am excited and have hope that the pandemic will soon be over. I will take with me a greater appreciation for beauty in the world.

-Kathy

Rebirth from a bud
Life rebounds from tragedy
Growth will come our way

-Betsy Zeeryp

To better manage anxiety, stress or depression, try DBT therapy. It is a program that really helps me with managing challenging emotions. Practicing these coping skills, I believe are essential “fix-it” tools in any toolbox. The more tools the better!

-Dannie

Be happy.

-Kathy

Photo Voice Project

Hobbies, crafts, and other pastimes are very useful distractions that help relieve stress and anxiety.

Big Girl, my goldfish, was my only companion at my house in Spring 2020 during the lockdown. I never knew a fish could serve as a companion until I noticed her noticing me in the room. She would come out and watch me move around. I felt a connection.

Reality callsWithin tragedy are dreamsFantasy is life. I take with me from this pandemic many skills. Through it, the power of escape through my mind. Without art or my fantasy, I would be lost in darkness.

Cold, wet, dreary dayIsolation comes full forceWe are now alone This picture represents the family gatherings that were physically lost during the pandemic. Not to say there weren’t any, because we had virtual opportunities. But it also reminds us of the need of human contact and the loneliness.

This wind up music box plays “You’ve Got A Friend.” It reminds me how people have been cut off from family and friends during the pandemic.

When you feel lonely, or anxious, or sad, it can help to get outside and take a walk. Sometimes it is hard to get out, but it is always worth the effort. Fresh air and nature are rejuvenating.

-Betsy Zeeryp

We may have taken the ability to gather with people for granted before the pandemic but we don’t anymore. We know that our relationships with people are treasures.

These tulips represent new beginnings and growth. I am excited and have hope that the pandemic will soon be over. I will take with me a greater appreciation for beauty in the world.

Rebirth from a budLife rebounds from tragedyGrowth will come our way

To better manage anxiety, stress or depression, try DBT therapy. It is a program that really helps me with managing challenging emotions. Practicing these coping skills, I believe are essential “fix-it” tools in any toolbox. The more tools the better!

Be happy.

Share this:

Reality calls
Within tragedy are dreams
Fantasy is life.

I take with me from this pandemic many skills. Through it, the power of escape through my mind. Without art or my fantasy, I would be lost in darkness.

Rebirth from a bud
Life rebounds from tragedy
Growth will come our way