THE PERCH announces an open call for submissions for its new issue, SOCIAL, to be published in September 2025.
The PERCH is a creative arts journal with mental health themes focused on original voices. It is produced and published by the Yale Program for Recovery and Community Health.
What does being “social” look and feel like in today’s society? How do you experience your own social life? What do your social support networks look like? What does the lack or loss of social support feel like? How have your social networks changed? What does it mean to be in connection with others, in person or virtually? What are you doing or planning to do to stay connected to counteract loneliness and isolation?
Many studies have shown the significance of socializing and social support networks in promoting wellness and recovery from mental health issues, substance use, and physical health challenges. THE PERCH’s new SOCIAL Issue will explore the relationship between our social lives and health through artistic contributions in 2025.
We seek poetry, creative nonfiction, fiction, artwork, virtual (visual) art, and scholarly pieces that illustrate the many aspects of social support and its relationship to wellness and recovery. Narratives may include personal stories about seeking social support, the loss of social support and its consequences, and the complex range of thoughts and feelings you experience about your support systems. Submissions should reflect social support’s many forms, including but not limited to friendships, relationships, mentorship, peer support and support groups, community, and social media. We are looking for specific and, in some cases, unusual or unexpected stories and images.
This is an open call—all are welcome to submit pieces for consideration!
Please submit your stories or artwork by April 18, 2025, at 11:59 pm. We anticipate a publication date in September 2025. Email Graziela Reis at graziela.reis@yale.edu with questions or concerns.