Teen Sophie Araque-Liu won US 2022 Doodle for Google. What can we learn from her 'Not Alone' artwork?

Teen artist Sophie Araque-Liu's special doodle for Google is winning hearts.

Google received a number of submissions for the 2022 theme 'I care for myself by...', but the 16-year-old's doodle bagged the award for US 2022 Doodle for Google contest. She also won a $30,000 college scholarship and a $50,000 technology package for her school. Moreover, the award was announced by teen sensation and singer-actress Selena Gomez.

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Through her 'Not Alone' doodle, the 16-year-old displayed the power of self-care. Keeping in line with the search engine's theme this year, her art showed that asking for help is the best way to care for oneself.


The pandemic was a difficult time for the young girl when isolation and loneliness started creeping in. Rather than keeping her emotions locked which most teenagers do, Araque-Liu decided to reach out to her mom. This simple move helped her get the valuable support, comfort and encouragement she needed. She also said that opening up helped her relieve stress and helped her tackle things she couldn't do on her own.

"I care for myself by accepting others' care for me. Often, I struggle to shoulder a burden on my own and forget that I have so many people, like my mom, who care about me and want to help me. Opening up and letting others support me not only relieves my stress—it lets me tackle things I could never do on my own," her submission read.

Inspired by her relationship with her mother, Araque-Liu tried to capture her mum's warm embrace when she needed it the most.

Dr Sharadhi C, Psychiatrist at Sakra World Hospital says self-isolation can accompany depression. "Depression is a treatable mental illness which results in social withdrawal and loneliness," she adds.

From feeling self-doubt and worthlessness to being disconnected from loved ones, a number of things can make an individual feel isolated.

• Discomfort in the presence of others and disconnectedness from family members
• A feeling of worthlessness, self-doubt, and helplessness
• Fear about things that could go wrong

On International Never Give Up Day, Araque-Liu's doodle sends the strong message that no one is ever alone.

Seeking help may seem challenging, but the Sakra psychiatrist says confiding in others can bring positive changes. While the nagging worry about others perceive you may be evident in people feeling lonely, it is crucial for such individuals to express his/her emotional concerns.

"Sharing your feelings could result in relief from gnawing apprehensions and pessimistic thoughts. It could ameliorate loneliness and help develop healthy coping styles," Dr Sharadhi says.

Experts suggest staying physically active, eating wholesome food, getting adequate sleep, engaging in voluntary activities, participating in group activities and staying connected with loved ones can improve mental health and prevent isolation.

Similarly, one must stay clear of erratic schedules, sedentary lifestyle and unregulated screen-time. "These unplanned daily activities could isolate a person from his/her family and friends, and deprive a person of the pleasures of human companionship and co-regulation of emotions," she shares.

What are your self-care strategies?