"EMBRACING HEALING THROUGH ART"

Hello and good day, NDCians! I'm Irene Polancos, an advocate for mental health and ending violence against women and children and also a survivor of various abuses. Today, allow me to tell you about my own story of resilience. Join with me on a fascinating journey from darkness to a colorful life and find out how art became my source of hope to continue embracing my precious gift from above called life.

When I was only six years old until my teenage years, I became a victim of different abuses in the hands of different people in different places I lived in, and I've been through a lot of healing process to recover from those unfortunate circumstances. During that time, I've experienced feelings of despair, hopelessness, and felt overwhelmed by the trauma and the pain it caused. It is very challenging for me mentally, emotionally, and even physically. I've also struggled to deal with my negative thoughts, difficulty in finding motivation, and a lack of focus, but even if I'm on the verge of giving up my life, I still tried to navigate my way through the darkness and find a way to heal. It was indeed a very traumatizing and heartbreaking journey, but I'm glad that God gave me talents and skills in art that helped me deal with my Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).In the beginning of my healing journey, my world was covered with darkness that I even couldn't find the colors of inspiration to keep moving forward.

However, when I was brought to DSWD's Home for Girls in Dasmarinas, Cavite for my recovery and protection, I was able to engage in activities that involved art, such as crafting, drawing, and painting. I fell in love with how art created a safe space for me to express my feelings when I didn't have the courage to talk. Art became one of my ways to cope with negative feelings such as boredom, stress, anxiety, and depression. I would secretly do art when I was alone, to occupy my mind with something positive, especially when I heard voices whispering to me to end my life. Art converts my negative thoughts and emotions into positive artistic expressions.

Now that I was given a second chance to live, I want to make it meaningful and purposeful. I promise to share the help and blessings I receive with others, especially those who have gone through similar experiences as mine, particularly for young people and women. I started it through advocating for mental health and ending violence against women and children by joining organizations and communities such as The Queens, Sagip Babae Foundation, Mental Health Matters Ph, Artdialogo Asia, and etc. This has brought color back into my life, as my dark and sad experiences has become an inspiration for others and a testament to the greatness of God.This also put a burning desire in my heart to build a foundation someday for those people who are in need.

And to anyone who's battling with life's unfortunate circumstances, I'm proud of you for moving through the mess, no matter how challenging it is at times. Despite all the hardships and pain, you have remained strong and kind. Please know that you are worthy of all the good things in this life. Always remember that you are God's wonderful masterpiece that is a work in progress. Don't be afraid to show your true colors on the canvas so that you can create unique masterpieces. Let the canvas tell your story of how beautiful and meaningful your life despite of all the things that have happened to you. Keep shining, dearest warriors. You are not alone in your battles.You are loved and you are worthy.

To God be the glory.