MHM Magazine

Issue 4 | 2022 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 29 MHM A team from the International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) has been studying the opportunities that arise where astronomy and mental health intersect. Pilot projects are using astronomy to help people improve their mental health and well- being. The OAD is examining the link between astronomy activities and the change of negativism in people with depression as they shift from a fixation on their own feelings to a larger perspective. The OAD is also looking at how similar activities affect those with phobias and fears. In order to appreciate this work, this article contextualises astronomy, mental health and the South African mental health crisis. Astronomy is the study of the sun, moon, stars, planets and other objects and phenomena in space. Although the study of space may conjure up images of high-powered telescopes and potatoes growing on mars, astronomy’s roots are interwoven through our species history. Humans have always had a fascination with the night sky. With an ever-expanding curiosity, humans have explored, investigated and imagined stories about the sky and the stars. Humans are born story tellers and have used storytelling to share experiences, knowledge and cultural norms. These folk tales, myths and stories created shared experiences with the power to unite people. They provided answers to the questions we held and explained natural occurrences. Over time, as science became more established, fact and myth diverged. While it’s easy to relate to the stories and tales within mythology, it might be hard for some to relate to the scientific study of the night sky. There are, however, many discoveries By Dominic Gregory Vertue Medical Social Worker, Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) – Visiting Fellow, Western Cape, mentalhealth@astro4dev.org. THE INTERSECTION BETWEEN ASTRONOMY AND MENTAL HEALTH