What is Photovoice?
Photovoice is an arts-based research method that, when used in a participatory action research (PAR) framework, gives coresearchers creative power and a unique and significant voice in the research.
Goals of Photovoice:
1. Enable people to create something that describes strengths and weaknesses of their community.
2. Provide opportunity for dialogue about community strengths and needs.
3. Share what is learned with policymakers.
This online gallery is part of the Photovoice process. An essential part of Photovoice is sharing knowledge with the community and taking action based on what we’ve learned. The Photovoice gallery allows us to showcase the results, knowledge, and work of the participants to be shared with providers and community members. While the Photovoice research team has already held an in-person gallery at Utah State University, we want to invite other individuals who were unable to see the gallery in person to explore our online gallery.
Mental Health and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (MHIDD)
This Photovoice project involved co-researchers who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Approximately 35% of individuals with IDD also experience mental health concerns. Existing research shows that individuals with IDD also face additional barriers to accessing mental health services than those without disabilities. This project sought to better understand the experiences of seeking mental health care as a person with IDD.
Samuel South
"I see things differently, in ways that I can't describe."
"Pain is real, even when compared to someone else's."
"I wanted to ask for help, but I didn't know how."
Jennifer South
"I long to be heard and have become quite insistent that I am listened to.”
“Healing is hard work, so taking many breaks for rest is important.”
“Healing my heart has made my mind work better and given me many good ideas.”
“I just want to be healthy like everyone else.”
“I want to be loved like the figurine on the left so I have the capacity to love like the figure on the right."
Alaina Arnett
"I need all the pieces of the puzzle to support my mental health."
“I can relate to and feel validated by the stories I read.”
"My favorite coping skills help me work through moments of frustration and distress."
“Being present in nature is healing.”
"Animals have a way of knowing how we're feeling."
“I need to be heard by someone I can trust."
"Everybody has different coping skills."
Nicole Burnard
“This is what I see when I feel stuck because I’m overwhelmed...”
“...and this is where I’m stuck, because it’s comfortable and safe.”
“Getting through the day is like trying to walk through putty.”
“From the outside, I’m put together. On the inside, there are some things I just can’t do.”
“Quiet on the outside, noisy on the inside.”
What did we learn?
For Mental Health and Disability Service Providers: It is important to use person-centered approaches with everyone. When working with anyone in mental health services, it is important to validate their experiences and ensure that they feel heard. When working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providers should also use the resources and established guidelines that are available, such as:
- The Ohio State University Nisonger Center's Adult Psychotherapy Guidelines
- Adaptive Strategies for Therapy
- Expanding IDD Knowledge
For Community Members: You are not alone if you are experiencing a mental health concern. Mental health concerns are common, and help is available! To learn more about common mental health concerns and resources, visit these links: