Erica Rigoroso

  • How to Support Someone with Bipolar Disorder

    To support someone with bipolar disorder, it’s important to have a thorough understanding of the condition. Understanding what bipolar disorder is and its symptoms can make it easier to provide adequate support for an individual with the condition and for those close to them.

    Keep reading to learn about how to support someone with bipolar disorder.

      Understanding Bipolar Disorder

      Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood as a condition that simply makes people moody. While shifting moods are part of bipolar disorder, those with the condition experience extreme mood swings with severe symptoms for a prolonged period. Similarly, these mood shifts cause notable changes in behavior, energy, activity levels, and ability to function.

      People with bipolar disorder experience shifts in mood across a spectrum with mania on one end, and depression on the other. These mood changes can last from up to several days to several weeks and are called mood episodes. Mania/hypomania is characterized by a predominant feeling of elation and euphoria, or feeling “wired”. On the other hand, depressive episodes cause an individual to feel numb, emotionless, or hopeless. However, while mania and depression can be of great concern, people with bipolar disorder can have periods of neutral mood as well. 

      Experiencing these symptoms of bipolar disorder can happen more or less frequently from person to person. The predominant mood generally determines the type of bipolar disorder one may be diagnosed with; however, factors like frequency and intensity can also affect diagnosis.

        How to Support Someone with Bipolar Disorder

        With an understanding of what those with bipolar disorder experience, knowing its symptoms can also make it easier to provide adequate support for those with the condition. While manic episodes can make an individual appear to be in a good mood, its other symptoms can wreak havoc on their overall well-being, whether it affects relationships or general health. The American Psychiatric Association describes some symptoms of mania as having a decreased need for sleep, increased or faster speech, uncontrollable racing thoughts, increased activity, and increased risky or impulsive behavior. On the other hand, depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder can include having feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fatigue, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.

        These symptoms can be difficult to spot in someone with bipolar disorder to those unfamiliar, and sometimes individuals experiencing these symptoms may not even be aware of their behavior. Aside from experiencing negative symptoms of the condition, some people with bipolar disorder may struggle with the diagnosis itself. It can be distressing to live with symptoms of bipolar disorder; however, having an understanding of these experiences and knowing how bipolar disorder affects those with the condition can be an effective way to provide adequate support.

        As Mind.org suggests, a website dedicated to mental health awareness, being open to someone with bipolar disorder’s experiences can help them feel more supported and accepted. This can look like asking questions about their experiences or feelings or letting them know you want to know more about what they’re going through.

        Similarly, learning someone with bipolar disorder’s warning signs or triggers for a mood episode can help better manage them. This can include talking to them about their warning signs and notifying them of any behaviors that usually happen before an episode. Doing this can help both the individual and their support system have a greater understanding of how bipolar disorder affects them, allowing the individual to get the help they need to manage their symptoms.

          Resources for Support and Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

          While supporting someone with bipolar disorder includes understanding the condition and having open conversations about their experiences, psychiatric treatment plays a vital role in managing bipolar disorder. Some of the medications that people with bipolar disorder take include mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants. These medications can help improve various symptoms of bipolar disorder, such as psychosis, depression, and manic episodes.

          Another effective treatment in conjunction with medication is talk therapy. Mayo Clinic suggests that several types of therapy can help those with bipolar disorder, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal and social rhythm therapy. Both of these types of therapy focus on centering those with bipolar disorder through routine and identifying negative beliefs and behaviors.

            Conclusion

            Bipolar disorder is a condition that involves extreme mood swings that can last days or weeks, with symptoms varying in severity. It is more than just being moody, as many people may misunderstand; its symptoms can cause a drastic shift in behavior, activity levels, energy, and ability to function. Supporting someone with bipolar disorder involves a thorough understanding of these symptoms, along with having open communication about their experiences. Similarly, medication and therapy are vital to help managing symptoms.

            This article was written for Ferry Godmother Productions, Inc.

              1. How to Support Neurodivergent Students in School

                As an educator, supporting students’ unique needs is essential to fostering a positive learning environment and a safe space for them to be themselves. Understanding a student’s needs and providing the resources they need to thrive is vital in nurturing the next generation of scientists, doctors, artists, and anything they can dream. But how can you support the needs of neurodivergent students in school?

                Keep reading to learn how to support neurodivergent students in school.

                  Understanding the Needs of Neurodivergent Students

                  One of the first steps in providing support for neurodivergent students is to understand what “neurodivergent” means. The term “neurodivergent” is a non-medical term describing people whose brains work differently than others. Some of these differences can include learning disabilities, medical conditions, or mental conditions. As Cleveland Clinic describes, the word “neurodivergent” is a way to describe people using words other than “normal” and “abnormal.” There is no “normal” way of describing people and how their brains work, as every person thinks differently.

                  Some of the most common forms of neurodivergence that you may encounter in the classroom are Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism, or ASD) and Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). With autism being found in 1 of 36 children and ADHD being found in 11.7% of children, understanding these differences can promote a more inclusive approach to teaching, along with giving a different perspective to creating lesson plans for all students.

                  Understanding the differences between students within the classroom can be a learning experience for both you and your pupils. Though understanding neurodivergent students and keeping their needs in mind may seem like a new concern, teaching with the utmost empathy and inclusivity for everyone remains a constant concern in education.

                    Providing Thoughtful Solutions

                    To help support neurodivergent students, it is essential to provide thoughtful solutions that can address their needs. Giving students the space or time they need when learning can allow a neurodivergent student to thrive when given appropriate support and encouragement from a mentor. Here are some common factors to consider to have a neurodivergent-friendly classroom:

                    Sensory Sensitivities

                    Some neurodivergent students may have sensory sensitivities, whether it is sensitivity to sound, light, or touch. To make your classroom sensory-friendly, you can:

                    1. Use softer lighting or natural lighting instead of harsh fluorescent overhead lighting
                    2. Provide a quiet space for students within the classroom or in another room
                    3. Providing fidget toys or other sensory tools
                    4. Clearly labeling areas of the classroom, materials, etc.

                    Edutopia, a blog discussing student education for educators, suggests that another way to support neurodivergent students is to break down large tasks into smaller steps. Some students may find tasks overwhelming, especially because time management, organization, and focus can be something they struggle with. Some ways to help students struggling with these obstacles include:

                    1. Utilizing checklists
                    2. Using rubrics
                    3. Using a calendar to organize specific times to complete the steps of a project or paper

                    Additional Support for Neurodivergent Students

                    When it comes to supporting neurodivergent students, parents and educators must work together to ensure that their needs are met. Having a conversation with parents about their child can help educators identify what methods of teaching would work best for them and allow them to thrive in the classroom.

                    Child Mind Institute, an organization providing resources to families and educators alike about children’s mental health, suggests that a way for parents to help support their neurodivergent student at school is to create an “About Me” letter of introduction. This letter can include things about the student such as:

                    1. What is their child good at, academically or otherwise?
                    2. How does their child show stress, and what is the best way to approach them?
                    3. What things are more difficult for their child?

                      Take Care

                      Supporting neurodivergent students in school can help them thrive in the classroom, with compassion and empathy essential to facilitate a supportive environment for all students. Understanding students’ specific needs and providing thoughtful solutions can help make a positive impact on their time at school and reduce obstacles they may face while learning. By keeping these differences in mind, parents and educators can help neurodivergent students learn at their own pace and to the best of their ability.

                          This article was written for Ferry Godmother Productions, Inc.

                        1. The US Military and the LGBTQ+ Community

                          The LGBTQ+ community is an incredible example of fighting for the right to exist, thrive, and live in peace amongst others. However, one place the LGBTQ+ community continues to wrestle with the right to exist is within the US Military. Though both communities share a common goal of fighting for what they believe in, there have been long-standing, firm efforts to prevent the union of the two groups.

                          Keep reading to learn about the obstacles LGBTQ+ individuals face in the US Military.

                            Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT)

                            One of the longest standing anti-gay laws regarding gay individuals in the US Military was the federal policy Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT). Implemented on October 1, 1993, this policy prevented lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals from serving in the military, along with instilling the fear of being discharged for their sexual orientation into those currently serving. The Human Rights Campaign, an organization dedicated to ensuring the equal treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals, writes that DADT operated on the false assumption that sexual orientation would undermine the ability of people to carry out their duties. In a remarkable win for a motion towards further equality and equity in the US military in 2010, the DADT policy was repealed. On September 20, 2011, the policy officially ended, granting anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, to serve in the military.

                              Transgender People in the Military

                              Transgender rights have been a growing concern in recent years due to more awareness of their fight for equality, along with more recognition of their identity and existence. The US Military is one space where the transgender community still struggles to find acceptance, with conservative leadership moving towards banning transgender individuals from serving altogether.

                              Though transphobia and discriminatory practices bar trans individuals from recognition in the US Military, there are numerous notable transgender veterans whose service and legacy made a lasting impact on the community. The Department of Veterans Affairs provides a comprehensive list of remarkable transgender veterans, with one of the most well-known trans veterans being Monica Helms. Helms is not only the creator of the transgender flag, but she is also the founder of the Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA).

                                Why are LGBTQ+ people in the military important?

                                Recognizing the existence of gay and transgender individuals is vital to building a community of diverse identities. People of all backgrounds, regardless of race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation, have the right to exist, and the denial of these dignities is a guaranteed path to the dismantling of the United States’ credo of equality, tolerance, and freedom. Despite the nation and its leaders’ suppression of gay and transgender identities, both the LGBTQ+ community and the US Military share the common trait of resilience, and both share the fight for freedom, whether it is from the ravages of war, or the poison of discrimination. Persistence is a universal, biological impulse; making the choice and effort to exist peacefully and proudly amongst others is what humanity must strive for, rather than division.

                                  Persist and Fight

                                  The US Military has long been a tumultuous environment for the LGBTQ+ community. With federal policies like Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, or even recent pushback against transgender individuals in the military, the gay and trans fight for equality continues. However, resilience is their greatest strength, as their efforts have created lasting impacts on the military/veteran community and the LGBTQ+ community.

                                  This article was written for Ferry Godmother Productions, Inc.

                                    1. Unpacking the Stigma Around Tourette Syndrome

                                      Tourette Syndrome is a condition of the nervous system that causes those with TS to move or vocalize involuntarily. Though there is more awareness of the condition, some people may still misunderstand what Tourette Syndrome is and how those with the condition experience it.

                                      Keep reading to unpack the misconceptions about TS and understand the condition more.

                                        Why is Tourette Syndrome Misunderstood?

                                        Without the correct information, many medical conditions can be very misunderstood–including Tourette Syndrome. As a condition that affects the nervous system and causes involuntary movement or vocalizations, able-bodied people may find it unusual that someone with TS’s body works differently than theirs.

                                        While those with TS have different experiences than those without it, there is still no excuse for ignorance or discrimination. All people, regardless of their differences, deserve kindness and respect.

                                          Common Misconceptions About Tourette Syndrome

                                          One common misconception about Tourette Syndrome relates to vocal tics. Often played as a joke in movies or television, people with TS are depicted with their vocal tics being solely obscenities or expletives. According to the Tourette Association of America, only 10% of those with TS experience this kind of vocal tic.

                                          Another misconception about TS is that those with the condition are able to control their tics. This is false, as TS is a disorder of the nervous system that makes those with the condition move or vocalize involuntarily. 

                                          Something that some people may assume about TS is that those with the condition must live restricted lives that center around controlling their symptoms. This is untrue, as many people with Tourette Syndrome live ordinary lives just like any other person. While some people with the condition may experience more severe symptoms, TS is just part of their everyday life.

                                            Raising Awareness for Tourette Syndrome

                                            With a few misconceptions about Tourette Syndrome cleared, there is still more to understand about the condition. There are many advocacy groups dedicating their efforts to educating others about TS, along with providing support for those with it or their friends and family.

                                            The Tourette Association of America along with Tourettes Action are both well-known groups aiming to educate and inform the public about Tourette Syndrome.

                                              Conclusion

                                              Tourette Syndrome has many misconceptions about it because of how it is depicted in media, but also due to a general misunderstanding of how it affects the nervous system. Though the condition might seem confusing to those that are misinformed, there are many resources that provide information about TS. Educating others about Tourette Syndrome is incredibly important to those with the condition, as it can foster more support and understanding for those with the condition. Most importantly, this understanding is a show of respect and kindness for others, regardless of any differences.

                                              This article was written for Ferry Godmother Productions, Inc.

                                                1. VRChat: Redefining Socializing

                                                  Virtual reality, as the name suggests, provides users with an immersive experience into the digital world, a new reality to live in. From gaming to relaxation, many people look at VR as a tool to unwind and dive into the world of pixels and polygons. As a new and constantly developing technology, VR ushers in yet another form of online communication. But what does this new, immersive experience mean for socialization deep into the digital age?

                                                  Keep reading to learn about how VR is redefining socializing.

                                                  Development of Virtual Reality

                                                  As Virtual Reality Society, a website dedicated to all things VR, suggests, virtual reality has been sought after long before the development of high-tech computers and gaming consoles. The idea of reality being a simulation has also been pondered by the French philosopher Rene Descartes, with his famous “cogito, ergo sum,” or “I think, therefore I am.” Though Descartes was concerned with the significance of the human experience, virtual reality inverts this proposal and, instead, asserts that a different reality is one to strive for and enjoy.

                                                  With virtual reality being something to enjoy and appreciate for its continuous development and technological achievement, one of VR’s drawing factors is its offering of an entirely new and unique gaming experience. Video games have increasingly been dedicated to providing a completely realistic portrayal of fictional worlds and characters, with remakes of old video games being revamped for better graphics and intuitive gameplay. 

                                                  Alternatively, VR has also become a tool for relaxation. It can provide therapeutic experiences for those struggling with mental health, simulating serene landscapes alongside positive affirmations. VR’s multi-faceted utility is another step in the direction of a strictly technological society, making old depictions of the future a reality.

                                                  VRChat: Redefining Socializing

                                                  VR as a tool for both relaxation and productivity doesn’t end there. Like artificial intelligence’s rise for carrying out tasks or thinking, VR ushers in a new form of online communication and socializing with a game like VRChat. While chatting with friends and strangers during gaming sessions is a common practice among gamers, VRChat brings meeting people to a meta state, allowing users to digitally present themselves with a “physical” body and meet other people online in the same space.

                                                  In other words, hanging out with friends and literally meeting other people no longer requires you to leave the house to “see” other people–or in the case of VR, a world of fictional characters. VRChat allows you to hang out with both friends and strangers alike across the globe and interact with them in the game, making it a conduit for human interaction for the “chronically online.”

                                                  VRChat’s affordance of a “physical,” digital presence makes body language both more cryptic and defined, with gestures from a user’s real body playing along with programmed poses to flash and display. In a way, body language becomes even more of a language, one fluent in online and pop culture, with references to video games, anime, or even movies possible through a digital avatar, including props and special effects.

                                                  Though VRChat’s digital representation knows no bounds, its eponymous chat feature still requires one’s own ability to socialize and talk with others. Whether you’re presenting your true, authentic self to the Internet or putting on a persona, a digital avatar cannot solely carry a conversation. However, the barrier between screen and human has long allowed Internet users the freedom to say what they want, however they want. In other words, a digital avatar and the freedom of the Internet can either be an obstacle or an enabler of social interaction. It is a double-edged sword; you can show yourself to the digital world, or become someone entirely different. Consequently, allowing yourself to become entrenched in a digital space may also be a double-edged sword: you can be outgoing with your online friends, but find it difficult to socialize in person.

                                                  VRChat’s ability to encourage social interaction while also holding the possibility of isolation in the real world makes it a fascinating new form of connecting (or not connecting) with others. But what does this trend toward an increasing online presence imply about the future of socializing?

                                                  What Does This Hold For the Future?

                                                  Online communication has undoubtedly revolutionized how we speak to and interact with others, both online and in person. Socialization looks very different than it did pre-Internet, and it continues to evolve as technology continues to be a pervading presence in human lives. As Pew Research reports, online communication through video games like VRChat has become a steadily growing way for teens to foster friendships with both online friends and IRL friends. Pew Research reports, “about 57% of teens have met a new friend online, with social media and online gameplay being the most common digital venues for meeting friends.” Based on these statistics, it seems that online socialization will only continue to grow and become the new norm.

                                                  Conclusion

                                                  Virtual reality has become the new reality. Its recreational use affords new ways to socialize with others, but it also functions as a tool to relax and heal. But with its benefits come greater implications about how technology and the Internet affect norms about socialization and the self. Studies on Internet use and as a social tool suggest that this increasing online presence will continue to grow, which may have an impact on IRL socialization; however, VR and games like VRChat hold promise for its encouragement of interacting with other people.

                                                  This article was written for Ferry Godmother Productions, Inc.

                                                    1. The emerging gaming scene of Southern Maryland

                                                      By Erica Rigoroso     

                                                      In the center of the room, extension cords, PC monitors, and various gaming consoles are carried away and placed on neatly organized rental tables in the large community center of a classy apartment complex. There are a handful some other young men waiting around. Some are sitting alone, while some engage in heated discussion about “broken” gameplay mechanics and playable characters in the popular fighting game, Super Smash Brothers Ultimate. A young man with impeccable posture diligently distributes electronics to their respective tables, black cords dangling from his hands, swaying like vines as he strides towards a small table in the middle of the room.

                                                      Every Wednesday night, 23-year-old Reid Hancock travels 40 miles to the southernmost part of Southern Maryland to host an independent fighting game tournament. Being the only event of its kind within the Southern Maryland region, Reid provides an opportunity for competitive gaming enthusiasts to connect with others with similar interests.

                                                      With the only other and larger gaming tournament being located in Laurel, Reid’s passion and enthusiasm allows for an easily accessible and supportive entry into the competitive gaming scene.

                                                      Seated at a counter in the venue, an apartment complex’s community center, Reid eats a burger from Wendy’s as he enters competitors’ usernames into a program that generates the tournament bracket. He dons a red fleece jacket, casually keeping warm in the air-conditioned space.

                                                      “This program I’m using is basically a matchmaker; it’s easy to use, but can be really tedious. I try not to get too frustrated when 7 o’clock approaches and I have yet to fill the brackets in completely when there are so many people, but I’m glad that so many people are interested at all.”

                                                      Reid, helpful and courteous, explains each step that goes into running Mega Drive.

                                                      “I just wanted a cool video game-related name for the tournament,” he chuckles about the weekly competition’s namesake.

                                                      For how eager he is, it’s hard to believe that only he and one other person run this entire event each week. He never seems exhausted by the work he does, the passion and dedication he has for this tournament can be felt even during the more mundane parts—clicking and typing away on a small grey laptop.

                                                      Though tasked with essential technical and organizational duties, Reid makes sure to welcome each person that comes in. He’s got a disarming presence, making anyone who walks in comfortable as he gives a friendly wave and smile.

                                                      “Hey, sorry to interrupt you, but hey there,” a regular attendee says to him as he straightens out a monitor placed on the counter next to him.

                                                      Reid steps out of his focus when he recognizes the face greeting him—a stout, blonde man named Matthew—his expression quickly changes as his eyes light up and his mouth curls into a smile.

                                                      “Hey! It’s great to see you! It’s been a while since you’ve come around here,” Reid excitedly responds.

                                                      This kind of interaction repeats over and over again as 7 o’clock approaches, his excitement never faltering or having any less enthusiasm.

                                                      “He’s generally pretty cheerful and positive,” a friend named Anthony contests, “he always brings a lot of good energy wherever he goes.”

                                                      Another friend, Michael, chimes in: “When he ran Mega Drive at a different venue, you could really tell he put his heart into this tournament. He’s definitely passionate about these games and just wants everyone to enjoy themselves.”

                                                      Growing up, Reid found a community online dedicated to discussing video games, spurring his excitement and fervor for this hobby. Forming friendships with like-minded individuals in middle school and high school only fueled this interest as he discovered his love for this type of gaming.

                                                      “I was the typical nerdy band kid at school,” he laughs, “I was even in Computer Bowl and marching band—I played alto sax.”

                                                      The friendly disposition forged by this enthusiasm for what he loves has made making friends an effortless skill for Reid, eventually majoring in Communications at the local community college, the College of Southern Maryland.

                                                      “Holding this tournament is extremely fulfilling, I’ve made so many friends through this,” he explains.

                                                      Though grateful for how far Mega Drive has come since its beginnings in the March of 2019, Reid looks back on the obstacles that he’s faced since then.

                                                      He furrows his brow a little as he goes through the list of struggles when running an event like this; yet, there isn’t a hint of despair.

                                                      “Well, COVID really hit this tournament, with quarantine and all ceasing all in-person playing. We’ve been gone for two years, but now we’re back, and I’m glad to be here again. But one of the main struggles I still have to deal with is having enough equipment, including tables or chairs, and mostly everything here belongs to me. Some people bring their own stuff, like controllers, but I don’t like the idea of having to rent things out.”

                                                      As the night continues on, Reid becomes more and more involved in every match happening, observing the skills of attendees and enjoying the atmosphere of camaraderie. Nothing else can compare to knowing that you’ve provided a positive outlet for those who need it.

                                                      Despite being an ordinary guy, Reid’s friendliness and passion for his hobbies has spurred a great community of those with shared interests in the underrepresented region of Southern Maryland within the fighting game scene.

                                                    2. How Maryland Locals Connect with Nature and History

                                                      By Erica Rigoroso

                                                                  A weak breeze sweeps over the Potomac River, creating gentle ripples across its surface. The sun rises higher in the sky, radiating a pleasant warmth in the cool morning air. A murder of crows squawks noisily above, spreading their wings and clumsily bundling together. On the shore, chunks of concrete act as wave breakers against the lapping tide, reaching to wisps of dry grass and brittle, dead branches. The stone is weathered and worn, rounded in every corner, covered in sea-green lichens and moss crawling on its surface.

                                                      In the distance, large, luxurious homes with oversized rectangular windows glimmer in the morning sun. The private docks and boat launches reach out toward the open water, standing still as the breeze picks up. Opposite these impressive homes, a stone and brick fort atop an eternally spring-green hill guards the Potomac.

                                                      At Fort Washington Park, several volunteers walk along the rocky shore hauling yellow plastic trash bags, highly visible against the blend of brown, gray, and green of rocks and earth. A National Park Ranger stands alone to the side, overseeing the event.

                                                      An event organizer wearing colorful rain boots and dark sunglasses welcomes an older Hispanic man and his teenage son to the clean-up, explaining which forms need to be signed and thanking them for their time.

                                                      “Are these gloves for everyone?” a volunteer inquires.

                                                      Park visitors and volunteers alike spread along a small stretch of sand, examining the smooth stones on the ground, spotting decaying fish, or picking up sea glass. An older man with a heavy dark brown work coat quietly makes his way toward a line of bags in the grass. He drops his bags off in the pile, then plops on the ground to rest. A woman with a denim baseball cap, donning green rubber kitchen gloves, asks a few younger volunteers, “have you seen any big bundles of fishing line stuck in the rocks?”

                                                      This park, where elderly folks walk in the mornings, children ride their bikes, and teens practice their driving skills, was once an important component in the military defense of Washington, D.C. During the Mexican War and Civil War, Fort Warburton defended the river approach to the nation’s capital.

                                                      The fort is over 200 years old, originally built with brick and stone, then reinforced with steel in the 1840s. From the War of 1812 to World War II, the fort’s space was used in defense training.

                                                      Shortly after WWII ended, the park shifted from military to civilian uses. In 1946, Fort Washington Park was taken over by the National Park Service. Now, the historical area welcomes visitors to bike along its various trails, picnic, fish, or just relax on its boundless stretches of soft, green grass.

                                                    3. How to Commission An Artist

                                                      Whether you’re painting a mural for your business or having your portrait painted, hiring an artist to do the job has been a practice for centuries. The work that artists do is incredibly valuable, as it brings creative visions to life that can make a meaningful impact on patrons of the arts.

                                                      If you’re looking for someone to bring your artistic vision to life, read more to learn how to commission an artist!

                                                      Commissioning an Artist: Your Job

                                                      Before you commission an artist, there is some work you have to do first–but don’t worry, it’s not difficult. Asking an artist to bring your creative vision to life relies on your wants, so this first step is about you.

                                                      To start, think carefully about the work that you want. This can include thinking about the medium, specific details such as size, colors, or even the art style, depending on what you are looking to get done. Artelier, an art consultancy company, suggests that even conveying a certain theme in your commission is something to consider as well. Having as many details as possible not only enhances the possibility that you will get what you want but it also helps to guide the artist through your creative vision.

                                                      Time to Commission an Artist

                                                      Now that you’ve had time to think about exactly what you want, it’s time to find an artist! Whether it’s commissioning a hat, a tattoo stencil, or a painting, a variety of resources can help you find the perfect artist. Many artists have a website or social media account that you can look at to see more of their art to help you decide if they’re the right fit for you. Similarly, there are many art consultancy websites that can help you  find an artist that fits your needs. 

                                                      Before you decide on a specific artist, it is important to know if they are accepting commissions or not. On social media sites like Instagram or X, many artists specify in their bios if they are open for commissions. Otherwise, you may need to contact the artist through their website or consultancy agency.

                                                      If the artist you’ve selected is accepting commissions, congratulations! The next step is to learn about their commission policies. This can include requesting a commission, their timeline or the process of creating their art, and payment policies. RiseArt, a company selling artwork from around the world, states, this is like creating a contract with your artist. As they suggest, like any business transaction, you will need a contract specifying the price, necessary expenses, and payment terms.

                                                      After your contract with an artist is approved, including payment, the artist will start working on your commission. Keeping in contact with the artist can be beneficial to both you and the artist, as they may send updates or ask for your input on their progress.

                                                      What’s Next?

                                                      With your art commission in progress, your job is to wait for your work to be finished. As stated previously, when discussing an artist’s contract with you, you usually have an idea of their timeline for your commission. While waiting patiently, just know that you’ve got custom artwork in the making for you, so hold on tight!

                                                      After your commission is finished, your artist will contact you, and you receive your new piece of art.! Depending on what you are commissioning, you may receive it digitally or shipped directly to you or your business. Always be sure to thank your artist for their hard work and to credit them for their artistry!

                                                      Conclusion

                                                      The world of art is an exhilarating place to find yourself in for all it has to offer. One of the most beautiful things about art and artists is their power to convey something unique, whether through painting, sculpture, or even clothing. Commissioning an artist is one of the best ways to support the arts, and it can help bring your ideas to life. Like any business transaction, commissioning an artist involves communicating payment, their timeline, and your input.

                                                      If you’d like to learn more about the significance of art in the community, read about the importance of murals at Ferry Godmother Productions.

                                                      This article was written for and belongs to Ferry Godmother Productions, Inc.

                                                    4. How to Support Someone with Autism

                                                      Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental condition that affects how a person interacts and communicates with others, along with affecting their learning and behavior. People with autism experience the world differently and may have different needs than those without the condition. Having an understanding of the condition can help raise more awareness of this unique experience and can make a significant positive difference in the lives of those with autism.

                                                      Read more to learn how to support someone with autism.

                                                      Symptoms of Autism

                                                      Some common behaviors related to social interaction include:

                                                      Autism encompasses a spectrum of experiences as it affects different aspects of a person’s life, with its symptoms differing in levels of severity. While not every person with autism experiences the same symptoms, many people on the spectrum may behave differently when it comes to social interaction/communication or exhibit restrictive or repetitive behaviors.

                                                      • Using an unusual tone of voice when speaking, whether it is varying in intonation or monotonous
                                                      • Making little or inconsistent eye contact
                                                      • Using facial expressions, movements, or gestures that may not match with what is being said

                                                      Restrictive or repetitive behaviors may include:

                                                      • Becoming upset by slight changes in routine
                                                      • Being overwhelmed by sensory input, such as light, sound, clothing textures, or temperature

                                                      Supporting Someone with Autism

                                                      With such a variety of symptoms, supporting the needs of someone with autism may look different from person to person.

                                                      No matter the differences, as with any friend or family member, interacting with someone with autism requires care, patience, and respect. As mentioned earlier, understanding these different experiences will give you a better idea of how to interact with someone with autism positively.

                                                      Some steps that you may take to support someone with autism are:

                                                      • Showing interest in their interests, such as by asking them to talk or show them to you
                                                      • Being clear and direct in your communication with them, which can include specifying why you are communicating with them (such as for a school project, or to socialize with them)
                                                      • Providing a space for them with minimal negative sensory experiences, such as a quiet room with an adjustable light source

                                                      Milestones Autism Resources, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of those with autism, provides a thorough list of practices for interacting with those with autism, emphasizing communication and encouragement.

                                                      Other Forms of Support

                                                      While there are many ways to support someone with autism on an individual level, there are also a variety of support groups and organizations that assist in providing resources for those with the condition and their friends or family.

                                                      These may include local support groups, which can provide assistance and resources for supporting someone with autism.

                                                      Conclusion

                                                      Autism Spectrum Disorder can affect a person’s interaction with others and behavior. Understanding the different experiences that someone with autism has can help foster positive relationships and interactions with them, with support including respect, patience, and clear communication.

                                                    5. How Virtual Reality Can Improve Mental Health

                                                      Virtual reality can allow you to experience the world from the comfort of your home, ranging from immersive 3D worlds to fast-paced rhythm games. While it can bring excitement and wonder, virtual reality can be an effective way to find relaxation and calm the senses.

                                                      Read more to learn how virtual reality can promote better mental health.

                                                      Simon Riches’ Study on Virtual Reality and Mental Health

                                                      Virtual reality is known for its immersive abilities. As a technology that grants a convincing digital perspective and hands-on experience, using these features for relaxation can be extremely effective. A 2023 study by clinical psychologist Simon Riches and his colleagues found that virtual reality is an effective tool to promote relaxation.

                                                      The study followed 848 participants with conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. Riches and his colleagues propose that virtual reality is a more accessible way to treat the stress these mental conditions may cause, as “stress management interventions for people with mental health conditions are numerous but they are difficult to implement and have limited effectiveness in this population.”

                                                      How VR is Used to Promote Relaxation

                                                      Riches’ study involved placing participants in a VR headset, mostly sitting down during the experience. It showed them nature-based environments like forests, islands, mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and beaches to promote relaxation. Some participants could explore these digital landscapes and walk along a path, or touch the water of a waterfall. Other participants experienced a more stressful environment or exercise, such as walking on a shaky path.

                                                      Similarly, in a 2022 study, clinical psychologist Jingni Ma and her colleagues found that natural landscapes in VR were effective tools to help promote mindfulness (“a mental state where one is focused on the present moment with non-judgmental awareness”) training in adults.

                                                      Results: Virtual Reality Can Improve Mental Health

                                                      The results of Riches’ study found that using VR to explore and experience virtual landscapes can promote short-term improvements in levels of relaxation, along with reduced anxiety or stress. Because of these results, VR was reported to be more or equally effective in comparison to non-VR relaxation techniques.

                                                      Conclusion

                                                      With all its possibilities, virtual reality can be a powerful tool to relax and de-stress. Experiencing digital landscapes in VR proves itself in multiple studies to promote better mental health as a source of relaxation and aiding in mindfulness training. Though VR can entertain and excite, it proves itself to do even more.
                                                      If you are looking for more ways to reduce stress, read more at MagicFeet.club.

                                                      This article was written for and belongs to Ferry Godmother Productions, Inc.