Undercurrents
Press release
April 2003

To All News Desk

British army troops under the influence of mind altering drugs is just one of the highlights of a new video documentary to be premiered in Brighton later this month.

Evolving Minds will be released in response to the lack of easily available information on the relationship between psychosis and spirituality. The ground-breaking video explores the growing alternatives to psychiatric treatment of mental health.

Produced by Undercurrents , an award winning media group, Its Director Melissa Gunasena from Brighton stated,

‘Throughout history humans have always sought to explore, alter and make sense of reality. I decided to make Evolving Minds following my own experiences as an involuntary psychiatric patient. After suffering the trauma of inhumane treatment whilst in hospital and the unwelcome effects of strong medication, I firmly believe that psychiatric treatment does not solve the problem, it merely suppresses and postpones it.”

Evolving Minds broadens the cultural barriers to reveal that schizophrenia, mania and psychosis have been accepted by many cultures and traditions as gateways to the spirit world. People with these experiences have been valued as contributing positively to the society's well being.

Evolving Minds also explains how chemical imbalances in the brain can be successfully
readjusted by eating a combination of everyday foods.

Director, Melissa Gunasena continued to say,
“In making the film I was able to not only research methods of coping with psychosis that could work for me, but to also share that information with others. I have been extremely empowered through the production of this video. Instead of feeling like a victim of the psychiatric services I feel that I have created something positive to offer the world.”

Undercurrents producer, Paul O’ Connor concluded,
“ By screening images of the British army experimenting with LSD, we can reveal that all cultures have an intention of exploring other realities. Evolving Minds presents a platform for the people who have received the harshest treatment in Britain’s mental health system and offers a better way forward.”
END

Notes to Editors-
Evolving Minds will be premiered at BRIGHTON CINEMATEQUE, 9-12 Middle Street at 7pm Saturday April 26th

Evolving Minds will then tour Britain, including a screening at Glastonbury music festival. VHS copies are available for purchase from www.undercurrents,.org

Photo opportunity- Director Melissa Gunasena is available for photographs amongst 100 copies of the video. She can be contacted on 01273 819291

Undercurrents can be contacted on 01865 203661 or 07973 298359