Desiree Mckenzie (she\/her) is a spoken word poet and teaching artist with a passion for storytelling. Kids Help Phone had the chance to connect with Desiree about two of their poems, \u201cGrey\u201d and \u201cBe Okay.\u201d These poems explore cultural stigma and mental health and highlight the power of art in sharing your story. Here, you can read our interview with Desiree and check out two videos of Desiree performing these poems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kids Help Phone knows that conversations about stigma, trauma and discrimination can vary in provinces and territories. We think it\u2019s important to share real life stories that reflect experiences across Canada. We\u2019ve encouraged the artist and author of this page to share their voice authentically and use language that makes the most sense for them. We also want to let you know the films and responses mention trauma, grief, substance use and contain phrases that may be upsetting. You can use our <\/em>e-mental health services<\/em><\/a> if you need support at any time.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Poetry plays a huge role in my health in general. It\u2019s an outlet that helps me process things I\u2019ve experienced and am going through. There\u2019s something really beautiful about writing something down and literally looking at it in front of you. It helps me fully acknowledge my feelings and everything going on in my head. There\u2019s mindfulness<\/a> to it which is nice, especially in a spiritual sense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I\u2019ve also always felt like I had trouble explaining myself. I feel like writing helps me find ways to process what I want to say and make it sound pretty with metaphors and similes. After I\u2019ve written, I always feel really empowered and proud because I\u2019ve expressed myself and in a way that others will understand. And hopefully that will help those who are experiencing similar things. <\/p>\n\n\nWhat role do poetry and art have in supporting your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual well-being?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n Video 1: Grey<\/h2>\n\n\n