This edition of Muses – the arts blog from BJPsych International celebrates the artwork of visual artist and psychiatrist Lakshmi Sravanti’s Embrace Yourself: Nurture the Inner Sufferer. It is the second in her ongoing series contemplating the human condition as it pertains to mental illness. We are also grateful that she has provided the message below.

Embrace Yourself: Nurture the Inner Sufferer

Artwork by visual artist and psychiatrist Dr Lakshmi Sravanti

Depression fosters a cycle of self-criticism and persistent feelings of guilt. The intense inner suffering often goes unnoticed by those around us, intensifying the sense of isolation and pain. Self-criticism is particularly pervasive in individuals with depression, often amplifying feelings of worthlessness and despair. In adolescence, this self-critical mindset can be especially damaging, as it coincides with a critical period of identity formation and emotional development, leading to long-term impacts on self-esteem and mental health.

One must recognize the inner self that is suffering and understand that ‘this self’ deserves compassion. Understanding the importance of self-compassion is vital in navigating through depression. Self-compassion involves treating oneself with the same kindness and understanding as one would offer to a friend in distress. It means acknowledging your struggles without judgment, recognizing that suffering is a shared human experience, and responding with care and support.

Recognizing the need for self-compassion is just the beginning; actively cultivating it is where the real process begins. This journey involves replacing self-criticism with a more nurturing and supportive inner dialogue. This shift from self-criticism to self-compassion is a gradual process and requires patience and dedication. It may involve practices such as mindfulness, self-reflection, and seeking support from others, including mental health professionals. Each small step towards self-compassion can significantly improve one’s mental well-being and resilience.

Ultimately, cultivating self-compassion helps to break the cycle of negativity associated with depression. It fosters a healthier relationship with oneself, promoting healing and growth. Despite the challenges inherent in this process, prioritizing self-compassion as a therapeutic goal can result in significant positive changes and enhanced overall well-being.

“Embrace Yourself: Nurture the Inner Sufferer” is the second in the series of artworks on depression that portrays the feelings of isolation and inner pain of depression and highlights the importance of self-compassion and understanding the inner struggles associated with it. Through its colours and symbolic imagery, it captures the complexity of depression. It invites viewers to contemplate the human condition, fostering a deeper connection to oneself and others. “Fractured Mind and Fragmented Self”, the first in the series depicts the state of mind characterized by impaired clarity, focus, and decision-making, and a diminished sense of self associated with depression. The series aims to underscore the transformative role of art in mental health, as it provides a unique medium for expressing and processing complex emotions.

Art not only serves as a means of expression but also as a catalyst for empathy and understanding. The power of art lies in its ability to transcend language barriers and communicate profound emotions and experiences. By visually depicting the internal struggles and emotional landscapes of depression, these artworks encourage conversations about mental health, challenging stigma, and promoting avenues for support and healing. In a society where mental health is often stigmatized or misunderstood, art provides a sanctuary for expression and reflection. It offers a platform for individuals to share their stories and perspectives, validating their experiences and promoting solidarity within communities. By showcasing the artistic journey through depression, this series seeks to inspire hope and resilience, encouraging individuals to embrace their inner struggles with compassion and courage.

Dr Lakshmi Sravanti
Assistant Professor
Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS)
Bengaluru, India

Email address: drsravanti@yahoo.com
ORCiD ID: 0000-0003-3979-9609

Welcome to Muses – the arts blog from BJPsych International. Launched in March 2022, this new blog aims to highlight international art and artists, particularly from low-and-middle-income countries, with a focus on mental health. We welcome submissions for consideration, such as, comments on artwork, visual arts, literature, drama, films, podcasts, and videos. Do have a look at the instructions for blog authors for details on how to submit. General enquiries about the blog: BJPInternational@rcpsych.ac.uk.

Dr Marinos Kyriakopoulos, Editor-in-Chief, BJPsych International