Art & Mental Health
Introduction
Art therapy is a type of psychotherapy that uses art as a form of communication and self-expression. It can assist people in dealing with emotional difficulties, trauma, stress, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
Art therapy can help people of all ages and from all walks of life. It can be used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, PTSD, eating disorders, addiction, and more.
Art therapy is most often given by a certified art therapist who has finished a recognised art therapy course. The type of techniques and methods used during art therapy sessions depend on the specific needs of the individual client.
Art therapy can be conducted in individual or group settings. It can be used in addition to other forms of treatment, like medication or talk therapy.
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is a type of expressive therapy that uses creative arts to better mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. The idea behind it is that the creative process of self-expression through art can help people work through conflicts and problems, develop social skills, cope with behavior, reduce stress, raise self-esteem and self-awareness, and gain a new perspective.
Art therapy is a type of therapy that can be used with individuals or groups of all ages. It is commonly practiced in settings such as hospitals, mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, day treatment programs, nursing homes, schools, community centers, private practices, and prisons.
How does art therapy help mental health?
Art therapy helps to express emotions
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that primarily uses art media as a mode of expression and communication. The act of making art is employed to better mental health and wellbeing. Art therapy can be used with individuals, families, and groups of all ages and can be beneficial for those who struggle with mental health conditions, trauma, substance abuse issues, anxiety, relationship problems, and depression.
Art therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions. A study found that art therapy was successful in lessening symptoms of depression in elderly adults (1). Another study discovered that art therapy was helpful in reducing anxiety and improving quality of life for people with cancer (2). Art therapy has also been found to be beneficial for children with mental health conditions such as ADHD and autism (3).
Art therapy can be used in addition to other treatments like medication and talk therapy. It can be an effective treatment on its own or in combination with other therapies.
Art therapy can be used to process trauma
Art therapy can assist people in processing and comprehending trauma. For example, an individual who has been sexually assaulted may use art therapy to express what they cannot put into words. The therapist can then help the person understand their artwork and start to work through the trauma.
Art therapy can help to improve self-esteem
One of the first casualties when someone is having mental health issues is often self-esteem. Art therapy can help to rebuild self-esteem by providing a safe space where people can express themselves without judgement. The act of making art can also be therapeutic, helping people feel more confident and capable.
Conclusion
Art therapy is a form of therapy that uses art as a way for the therapist and patient to communicate. It can be used to assist those with mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. Art therapy can also be used to help people who are battling addiction and substance abuse.
