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We speak to creative minds about their mental health to find out how it shapes their art and their lives.

Two artists from two different continents, the painter Hana Alfikih and the photographer Tsoku Maela discuss how they use their artistic platform to challenge attitudes toward mental illness in their home countries of Indonesia and South Africa.

We meet the comedian finding the funny side of her mental health battles. Maria Bamford, the star of the TV series Lady Dynamite shares the story of how many of her most difficult moments inspired her most celebrated comedy.

In the city of Mumbai, India, a group of creative minds have come together to try and change attitudes toward mental health – all through the power of a podcast. One of its producers Zain Calcuttawala tells The Cultural Frontline how he was inspired to create the podcast, Marbles Lost and Found, by his own personal experience.

Plus has a book, a song or a film ever changed the way you think about life? The award-winning choreographer and performer Akram Khan shares the story of the film that changed his life, giving him the sense of humour and confidence to express himself that he lacked as a tongue-tied teenager who loved to dance.

If you have been affected by the content of this programme, or if you have found anything in this programme distressing, support is available.
It may help to talk to a health professional or trusted friend, or you can go online to the website befrienders.org which lists organisations around the world that can provide support.

Presented by Tina Daheley

Produced by Mugabi Turya, Kirsty McQuire, Nancy Bennie, Anna Bailey and Shoku Amirani

Image:Sehlaga from Abstract Peaces by Tsoku Maela. Credit: Tsoku Maela