JUUL
Life has its ups and downs and everything in between.
Both locally and nationally, the number of people with mental health issues is increasing rapidly. This is particularly true among young people aged 16 to 25, where six out of ten face such problems. Juul van Hoof of the GGD Amsterdam focuses her efforts on understanding and tackling this growing mental health problem.
The anonymity of a city can evoke feelings of isolation, even amidst the hustle and bustle. Young people and young adults experience increasing pressure as a result of factors such as housing, performance pressure, and the challenges of life, which contributes to these problems.
For me, mental health is of essential importance, where everyone has their own challenges. Life has its ups and downs and everything in between. Sometimes it feels like a difficult period, and sometimes like a relief. Sharing these moments, as I do in my work, lightens that burden and offers valuable insights. The realization that you are not alone in your challenges contributes to a sense of connection and understanding, both for yourself and for others.
I strongly believe in the importance of asking for help and am grateful for the support of my close-knit group, which has felt like family for twenty years and where we stand by each other in difficult situations. Sometimes it is tough, but I believe in the crucial importance of asking for help.
As a lesbian person, I am convinced that it can still be difficult for young people, regardless of their sexual orientation, to speak openly about homosexuality. Breaking these taboos and creating a supportive environment is invaluable. Everyone deserves acceptance and understanding, regardless of who they are. Fostering open conversations about diversity plays a central role in striving for equality and inclusion in our society.
The book "A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara left a deep impression on me, beautifully highlighting the emphasis on resilience and friendship. The story about friendship continues to resonate with me and highlights the power of support in difficult times. The incredible journey of individuals like *Lena Olivier of the Mental Health Art Tour, who transformed personal pain into compassion and strength, deeply inspires me.
Lena's loss of her sister Miranda to femicide in 2014 has had a profound impact. Her account of Miranda's final years, during which warnings were ignored and, tragically, life ended, highlights the importance of therapy in the grieving process. Miranda's story demonstrates the need for support for victims of violence and the importance of the healing power of compassion and therapy. Lena is one of a series of audio portraits from the Mental Health Art Tour.
