ArtMeStrong is a proposed art therapy program for inner city youth in Newark, New Jersey. Teen depression rates worldwide are on the rise. But, more specifically and less discussed are the rates in the urban areas. Depression is a phenomenon that cuts across all demographics but the differentiating factors are the types of adversity inner city youth is facing and their availability to resources. Specifically, African-American adolescents residing in inner city low-income environments tend to be at even higher risk than their counterparts (possibly due to increased exposure to community violence, criminal and gang activity, drug use, and poverty). Newark, having one of the highest African American demographics in New Jersey and also being considered an inner-city environment is clearly a likely area for many teen depression issues to arise. Accompanied by the lack of art programs in the city, it’s also safe to say there is a necessity for artistic and therapeutic outlets available to teens who need it. Based on this information, the city has an obligation to implement youth programming that uses art therapy for the improvement of mental health amongst our youth.
The plan is to inspire support in the start of a local program called Art Me Strong, which will house multiple art therapy classes and activities for children 11-18. It would involve poetry, pottery, painting, sculpting, re-purposing, theater, vocal performance and dance. The potential impact would be great because of the lack of programs like it in the city currently. Also, being that there is a lack of art in schools and budget cuts, it could potentially be a great investment in improving the mental health of school age pre-teens and teens who currently lack artistic and mental health support.