Touch Deprivation Teletherapy Proliferation provokes awareness of the increasing numbers of mental health issues triggered during and post the Covid19 pandemic by exploring how technology can hinder yet help our wellbeing. Humans crave connections in everyday life, whether through touch or technology. Disconnection and touch deprivation makes us crave connection. Fear, isolation, depression, and loneliness rates are soaring. During the pandemic, the Samaritans received one call per minute for help. Individuals with higher social media usage were more than three times as likely to feel socially isolated. Technology services, such as teletherapy, provides a chance to unravel our thoughts, confiding to strangers through technology’s screens in the comfort of our homes.
Stephen is an amateur composer from Dublin who studied Theology and Music in Maynooth University from 2011 to 2014. After completing a H. Dip in Psychology at Trinity College Dublin in 2017 he worked in the Not-For-Profit Sector as a Data Analyst for a few years before deciding to become a secondary school teacher. He is currently in his final year of the Professional Masters of Education at University College Dublin and enjoying it very much. In his spare time, Stephen likes reading and practicing his ukulele.
Visual/Fine Artist & Educator originating from Dublin. Graduating from Athlone Institute of Technology in 1998 with a Diploma in Visual Design Communication. Hazel worked as a Graphic Designer for several years. In 2011, Hazel completed her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Fine Art Sculpture & Environmental Art at The Glasgow School of Art. She interned with the Glasgow Print Studio before working as an art tutor in several prisons in Scotland. Hazel returned to Ireland in 2016 and worked as an Education Coordinator at the Limerick Printmakers, and most recently as an Assistant Pottery Manager at Center Parcs Longford Forest; prior to commencing the PME in NCAD. Hazel is a multidisciplinary artist whose artwork draws on historical themes and taboos to the everyday mundane ritual. As an artist and educator, she encourages positive wellbeing practices nurturing an inclusive environment, where learners can critically think, develop self-confidence, and have a voice.
Charlotte Reynolds is an artist and educator currently based in County Louth. She has graduated from Dublin Institute of Technology with a BA Hons in Fine Art in 2018. She has also graduated from National College of Art and Design with a Master of Fine Art degree in 2020. She is currently in her final year of Professional Masters of Education in Art and Design in National College of Art and Design. Charlotte’s art practice consists of drawing, sculptures, and lino printing. Charlotte’s artworks have been featured in The Irish Arts Review.