As mental health continues to cause problems, the creative arts may have the solution to help people who are impacted. Art therapy, in particular, has shown significant results in people’s recovery as it gives people the means to express themselves in ways verbal communication doesn’t allow. Due to its approach, more people prefer art therapy as it shows the most promise to meet people’s emotional and social needs.
Moreover, anyone may find benefit in art therapy as it encompasses numerous treatments that emphasize creativity. These treatments include music and theater therapy, body and dance movement psychotherapy, and lastly, arts and crafts therapy. Nonetheless, art therapy has various options that can attract a variety of people, whether they have artistic talent or not.
History of Art Therapy
Throughout human history, people have practiced self-expression and communication through the arts. Yet, art therapy wasn’t recognized as an official treatment method until the 1940s. At the time, doctors noticed that people struggling with mental illness were frequently turning to arts and crafts for relief.
In turn, this inspired mental health professionals to include art in their treatment plans, resulting in more patients adopting the therapy. Regarding the creative arts, this therapy style encompasses various ways to address people’s mental health struggles. For example, art therapy works in individual and group settings, and can improve one’s mental health and ability to connect with others.
Art Therapy and Mental Health of Youth
https://gty.im/2141939292
Following a recent study, researchers showed how art therapy improved the mental health of youth by conducting their own art intervention. Overall, this art intervention happened in an open setting where the therapist could guide the patient with little instruction. The patient also had the right to choose what materials to use during the session, and the therapist could only work with what was given. Unfortunately, the participating youth were unable to go to these sessions in a typical classroom setting. They did meet once a week for one to three hours for ten months.
After a year, the researchers discovered positive changes in these youth’s self-esteem and identity development. Also, the therapist’s support for autonomy and making no specific demands on the participants was believed to be a key element of the program’s success. Since these youth didn’t have to share their artwork, they could focus more on the creative process than the result. Thus, art therapy helped socially-isolated youth better communicate and interact with their peers, while giving them tools to ease their social anxiety.
The Myth of the Troubled Artist
Although creativity may be a gift to many people, artists and other creators may not share the same sentiment. In fact, the connection between the arts and mental health continues to be a main topic in many arguments, increasing the relevance of the “troubled artists.” Hopefully, understanding the connection may help artists not to lose themselves in their art, by giving them more support and much-needed resources.
Over the years, studies have only strengthened the idea that someone’s creativity and mental health disorders share a connection. Specifically, the Journal of Psychiatric Research published research revealing that people who work in creative environments and professions have an increased risk of developing a mental health condition. Along with this research, other studies have shown mental illnesses are more likely to impact artists, writers, and other creative people.
Final Thoughts
Many art therapists incorporate goal planning and setting objectives in their sessions that meet their clients’ needs. What’s more: Art therapists engage creative processes by supporting their clients’ growth in art, which provides insight into their issues, heals trauma, and decreases anxiety. As a result, their clients can improve their self-worth and interpersonal relationships, while unlocking potential artistic talent at the same time.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician or other medical professional. Please speak with your doctor or therapist if you have any questions or concerns.
For More Great Content
Do you desire top-tier content that covers everything? From thrilling sports and intoxicating entertainment news to gaming tips and professional betting advice, Total Apex covers it all. Delve into our no-fluff articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the latest scoops in the gaming industry that will take your experiences to the next level.
Finally, our betting advice will give you a decisive edge over the competition and increase your odds of beating the books. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, Total Apex is your one-stop shop for all things compelling and relevant. Don’t forget: we cover Fantasy Sports too!
Check out all our sites: Total Apex Sports, Total Apex Fantasy Sports, Total Apex Entertainment, Total Apex Sports Bets, and Total Apex Gaming. Out of the ashes of obscurity will rise a beast. Always remember to Respect The Hustle! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports to stay informed.
