Photography is my lifesaver
I am a 28-year- old photographer and read your article about photography and mental health ( Photography can save your life, AP 24 February 2018). First I would like to thank you for publicising this issue, because I have suffered from depression and photography has been my lifesaver. I now donate prints to mental health centres and charities, and it feels good to give some happiness in a photograph. But another issue that I wanted to shine a light on is that of chronic pain disorders. I suffer from fibromyalgia among many other problems and if I’m not with my camera, I’m at the hospital or having treatments at home.
When I’m out with my camera you would think I’m fine, since it’s one of those illnesses where people often say: ‘but you look so well’. They have no understanding of the pain I am in, and the amount of medication I have to take each day. My camera gives me a reason to live, but the illness is destroying me mentally and physically. After my shoots I feel drained and it takes me a day to recover.
I’d like to share a photograph with you to show the truth of something that’s hidden inside my body. The idea first came to me when I did a project on chronic pain, but without the means to find people willing to step in front of the camera I photographed myself. I do wonder how all these tablets will make me look and feel over time. Photography has developed a side of me I never knew existed – it has given me confidence, intelligence and, above all, a little life I never thought I would have, although I suffer for it dearly. I’m thankful for every little click I have made. My illness is the worst thing that has ever happened to me, but photography is certainly the best. I live for it with a passion. Miss Redmond
This is one of the saddest letters I have ever received as AP Editor. I feel dreadfully sorry for your situation and hope that in time your life will get better. If there are any other readers out there who can offer help or advice in any way, please do get in touch with me. In the meantime, I hope you will be able to put your prize of a memory card to good use – Nigel Atherton, Editor