Loss is a form of trauma that is universally felt yet difficult to describe. Because of this, countless creators and artists have attempted to depict it onscreen. Perhaps by doing so, we as viewers can become more empathetic and understanding of not only others’ pain as well as examine and learn from our own. The women we have featured in this month’s crowdfunding picks all use narrative shorts to unpack the nebulous, confusing emotions associated with loss.

First this month is “Swings & Roundabouts,” a work about miscarriage, a form of loss not often depicted onscreen. “Dark Is Her Shadow” takes on a unique form of personal loss — the loss of trust in society and the loss of a safety net that can manifest after a trauma. Finally, we also introduce readers to “Hatched,” a short that deals not only with our own losses, but the collective scars that can result from the hardships of others.

Here’s our latest round of women-created and women-centric crowdfunding picks.

“Swings & Roundabouts” (Short) – Written and Directed by Frances Loy

Though 25 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage, it’s a sensitive subject that often goes ignored in the media. Unfortunately, this can stigmatize the issue and lead to shame and feelings of inadequacy and isolation among women and their families. From writer-director Frances Loy, “Swings & Roundabouts” attempts to tackle the subject head-on by discussing the physical and emotional challenges that accompany miscarriage. The short explores the subject through characters Sarah and Paul, who are overcome with grief when Sarah miscarries.

The production crew for this short consists of almost all women, and the crew members are determined to tell this story right. So rest assured that this will be a sensitive, nuanced depiction of an experience that women have had to silently endure for too long.

Contribute to the film’s Indiegogo campaign here.

“Dark Is Her Shadow” (Short) – Written and Directed by Molly Manning Walker

We often forget that loss occurs in many forms — not just the passing of a friend or loved one. Often, losses via other forms of trauma have similar symptoms and can impact individuals just as deeply as death or illness.

“Dark Is Her Shadow” centers on Amy, a teenager navigating the day following her rape. While the ghost of her rapist prevents her from moving on, Amy must face the demoralizing experience of being blamed for the trauma, or not being believed at all.

This looks to be a dark, devastating depiction of the ways women lose their sense of trust after being let down by society. As director Molly Manning Walker says in her campaign, this film will not prevent rape, but it will “question why we ask ‘What where you wearing’ and why we don’t ask ‘Are you alright?'”

You can learn more and contribute to the project’s Kickstarter campaign here.

“Hatched” (Short) – Directed by Rachel Annette Helson; Written by Kimberlea Kressal

In “Hatched,” a woman named Kay suffers a huge loss. In her grieving process, she tries to cope by uncovering clues as to what happened after 41 children mysteriously vanish in a National Forest. In doing so, she begins to question whether there is a hidden conspiracy behind their disappearances — or if the incident was due to the unpredictability of nature.

“Hatched” marks an exciting narrative directorial debut for actress Rachel Annette Helson. Kay, a member of the LGBTQ community, will be portrayed by Melissa Ponzio (“Chicago Fire,” “The Walking Dead”). If you are interested in seeing a story about a complex, three-dimensional queer-identifying woman, one who questions fate and is goes through a major life upheaval, this is definitely a project to support.

Help support the project through its Seed&Spark campaign here.

To be considered for Women and Hollywood’s biweekly crowdfunding feature, please write to womenandhollywoodinterns@gmail.com. All formats (features, shorts, web series, etc.) welcome. Projects must be by and/or about women.