Culture
18 May 20

Fears marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Week with 'two_'

Watch the video for the new single from Fears below.

London-based Irish artist Fears has shared a stunning new self-produced single 'two_' – commissioned as part of the Northern Ireland Mental Health Arts Festival.

The release arrives two years after Fears, aka Constance Keane, received inpatient treatment in a Dublin hospital, and is accompanied by a self-directed video, which reflects on recovery from trauma and companionship using repurposed footage shot by Constance and her family over the last two years.

“Creativity was, and still is, such a huge part of recovery for me, so to be part of a festival showcasing the creativity of people with mental health issues is incredible," Constance says in a statement about the release. "I think when it comes to budget cuts for the mental health sector, creative resources are too often the first to go, so it’s great to see a group celebrating the significance of being creative in maintaining positive mental health.”

'two_' is a continuation of a conversation opened with previous release ‘h_always’, which was written during her time in hospital.

“For me, there is no final point where I’ve 'gotten better'," Constance says. "I am better than I was before, but 'better' isn’t a destination. It’s about learning, maintenance and forging trust in myself.”

“It’s important for me to discuss the topic of self harm; it’s something I’ve been trying to figure out how to approach for a while now. I don’t endorse self harm. It’s an unhealthy coping mechanism when you’re distressed; but it’s also incredibly common. Within the improving awareness and discussion around mental health, I feel self harm still carries the weight of secrecy and shame. I have lines on my leg from hurting myself a few years ago. They’re most likely going to be there for a very long time.  "

Fears has received significant acclaim across Ireland and the UK – with airplay on NTS, BBC and RTE, as well as acclaimed slots at Body & Soul, Other Voices and Quarter Block Party.

Watch the video for 'two_' below: