The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA) has recognized that there are many different pathways to recovery, and each individual determines their own way.  Recognizing the diverse journeys to recovery, SAMHSA established guiding principles informed by consumers, families, and experts. Here's a list of SAMHSA's Guiding Principles of Recovery:

·       Recovery Emerges from Hope

·       Recovery is Person-Driven

·       Recovery Occurs Via Many Pathways

·       Recovery is Holistic

·       Recovery is Supported by Peers and Allies

·       Recovery is Supported Through Relationships and Social Networks

·       Recovery is Culturally-Based and Influenced

·       Recovery is Supported by Addressing Trauma

·       Recovery Involves Individual, Family, and Community Strengths and Responsibility

·       Recovery is Based on Respect

Shutter and Strum's "Unshuttered" project directly addresses several of these vital principles, making it an impactful intervention for at-risk youth in Colorado Springs. “Unshuttered” will offer a creative, culturally-sensitive, and trauma-informed approach to empower at-risk youth in Colorado Springs. The project has the potential to foster hope, self-discovery, and a sense of community, all crucial aspects of recovery for young people facing mental health challenges.

Here's a breakdown of how the project aligns with each principle:

Hope

Empowerment and Collective Action: By equipping youth with artistic skills and a platform for community dialogue through exhibitions, "Unshuttered" will foster a sense of agency and hope. Participants can become advocates for mental health awareness and create positive change within their community.

Person-Driven Recovery

Therapeutic Choice and Creative Expression: The project will offer a unique therapeutic outlet through photography, allowing participants to engage in self-expression on their own terms. This will foster a sense of control and autonomy in their healing journey.

Many Pathways to Recovery

Addressing Intergenerational Trauma: "Unshuttered" acknowledges the specific challenges faced by youth experiencing intergenerational trauma. It will also provide a safe space for processing and healing through creative expression, alongside traditional therapy.

Holistic Approach

Mental and Emotional Well-Being: Art therapy has proven benefits for emotional processing and well-being. "Unshuttered" combines creative expression with therapeutic support from trauma-informed clinicians, addressing both emotional and mental health needs.

Peers and Allies

Trauma-Informed Instructors: Instructors with experience in alternative education settings can provide a safe and supportive environment for youth who may have faced marginalization in traditional settings. They can serve as mentors and allies on the path to recovery.

Peer Support and Collective Identity: The project setting fosters peer support and a sense of shared experience among participants. This can be particularly powerful for youth who may feel isolated due to their struggles.

Relationships and Social Networks

Building Community Connections: Through participation in workshops and art exhibitions, "Unshuttered" has the potential to build new relationships and a broader social network for participants. This can combat social isolation, a significant risk factor for mental health struggles.

Culturally-Based and Informed

Trauma-Informed Approach: The project's instructors are trauma-informed, ensuring a culturally sensitive approach that acknowledges the diverse experiences of participating youth.

Addressing Trauma

Direct Focus on Intergenerational Trauma: "Unshuttered" will specifically address the complexities of intergenerational trauma through therapeutic support and creative expression, providing a safe space for processing and healing.

Strengths-Based Approach

Building on Creative Potential: The project focuses on fostering artistic skills and self-expression, helping youth identify and build on their strengths. This can boost self-esteem and confidence.

Respect and Social Inclusion

Breaking Stigma: Public exhibitions of participants' work are expected to spark conversations about mental health and intergenerational trauma, dismantling stigma and fostering a more inclusive community.

Empowered Agents of Change: By equipping youth with skills and a platform for advocacy, "Unshuttered" will empower them to speak up about their experiences and become agents of change within the Colorado Springs community.