Through this diverse collection of provocations, Jill Bennett presents an exciting new paradigm for understanding mental wellbeing. We see how art, in its myriad forms, can be uniquely placed to explore the personal, political and spiritual dimensions of distress – and to guide us towards a deeper, more empathic response
Nathan Filer, co-lead of the Research Centre for Mental Health, Wellbeing and Creativity at Bath Spa University, UK
<p>Jill Bennett more than anyone manages to bind social and aesthetic issues on the profound level of thinking “in the world”. Mental health issues, or “neuro-diversity”, she takes on in this peerless volume, from a constructive aesthetic entrance. And “collaboration” is her middle name.</p>
Mieke Bal, Independent Scholar and Artist, Amsterdam School for Cultural Analysis, the Netherlands
<p>Breaking with the dominant bio-medical approach to mental health, this inspiring volume is firmly grounded <i>in</i> lived experience. Combining thought-provoking theory, practice and creativity, it encourages critical thinking<i> with</i> experiences of distress. The Big Anxiety leads the way in radically reconceptualising ‘mental health’ and its support through an exciting array of cultural and creative practices.</p>
Renata Kokanovic, Professor of Health Sociology, RMIT University, Australia