Sophie (20), who received support from a variety of Solent Mind services, has now used their artistic flair to raise awareness of mental health through a powerful photography exhibition in Southampton.

The young photographer and multi-media artist first began taking photos to express their own experiences with mental health during a difficult period. Now, their ‘Like a Swan’ collection has been showcased to the public at Southampton’s Central Library.

The exhibition explored the many ways mental health can affect people, highlighting the hidden struggles people face.

Sophie said: “At just 15, I was hospitalised after my mental health hit an all-time low. It was a very scary time.

“That was when a doctor described me as being like a swan – calm and collected on the surface, but paddling frantically underneath just to stay afloat. This has stuck with me years later and really put into words how I felt.

“With help from a great team of healthcare professionals, and additional support from Solent Mind, I’m now in a much better place. I want to raise awareness of mental health and the support available, to help other ‘swans’ out there.”

The young artist’s exhibition ran for 4 weeks in Southampton.

Sophie said “I wanted people to see the face behind the camera, so I made sure I was around on several occasions in case anyone wanted to chat to me about the project.

“An important aspect of the exhibition for me was the opportunity for people to reflect on how they were truly feeling. I was really blown away by the community’s reaction to the exhibition and the impact it has had.”

Sally Arscott, Solent Mind CEO, said how inspiring Sophie’s story is, and praised the service user for using their lived experience to help others feel less alone.

“Sophie went through an extremely difficult time at a very young age and seeing them use their artistic talent to raise awareness is just incredible,” said Sally. “At Solent Mind, we’re committed to breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health, and it’s fantastic that Sophie is advocating for this.”

Sophie’s ‘Like a Swan’ exhibition was on display at Southampton’s Central Library in February and March.

The young artist received support from Solent Mind’s NHS Talking Therapies service and the charity’s crisis services - The Lighthouse and Safe Haven. They now use their experiences to help shape mental health services with the support of Solent Mind, including sitting on interview panels, speaking at events and collaborating with other people with lived experience.

For more information about Solent Mind’s services available in Hampshire, visit: Support for you | Trusted mental health services in Hampshire