31 Days Denver

(2020-21)

No one can deny the detrimental effects of the recent pandemic on young people's mental health. This photographic and audio storytelling series, 31 Days Denver, focuses on the Millennial and Gen Zers’ mental health stories during the COVID-19 pandemic, involving singular images and brief audio recordings. The audio tracks were taken from the interviews conducted with the subjects in their domestic spaces. Each participant was asked about their mental health and how the pandemic had affected their daily lifestyle.

Due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic events, there has been an increase in mental health conditions. Most individuals are unaware of the psychological disorders that could affect themselves or their loved ones. The images are meant to mirror the real emotions of the participants—showing the audience that anyone may experience such situations. COVID-19 has dramatically affected everyone’s lives and the photos tell the stories of those who have been affected. The pairing of audio and imagery creates a strong narrative – communicating the varying emotions of the participants.

This series investigated many feelings we all have encountered during the pandemic. I linked mental health resources through photo and audio storytelling; in alliance with the Mental Health Center of Denver and Colorado Crisis Services. Each subject came from a different background and experienced a wide range of events because of COVID-19. 31 Days Denver critiques the negative social stigma of mental health and strives to demolish the barrier that forbade individuals from discussing their mental well-being.

31 Days Denver received wide attention—with stories from CBS4 Denver,9 News Denver,CU Denver News, and the FRCC Blog.