Living with anxiety can be a constant battle, but there's a remarkable ally you may not have considered: art. As an adult who knows the struggles of anxiety all too well, I've discovered the incredible power of creativity in keeping those anxious thoughts at bay. So, let's talk about just creating.
As a fellow artist once wisely told me, "Just create, and everything else will fall into place." You see, you don't need to be an expert in design, color theory, or photorealistic portrait-drawing for art to work its magic in your life. Whether you're painting, writing, or sculpting, the act of creating is a therapeutic journey that can bring immense relief.
For those of us who battle anxiety and depression, art can be a beacon of hope. When you're immersed in the creative process, your mind shifts away from those nagging negative thoughts. It's like a mental vacation, allowing you to focus on the beauty you're crafting instead of your worries.
The beauty of art lies in its deeply personal nature. How you choose to express yourself is entirely up to you, and that autonomy can be a liberating way to combat stress and prioritize your inner well-being. Anxiety and depression can be helped by art therapy.
In a 2010 study conducted by researchers at National Jewish Health in Denver, the impact of art therapy on children with asthma was explored. While asthma is a physical condition, the emotional toll it takes on children's mental health is undeniable. The study, which involved seven weekly art therapy sessions, revealed that the kids who participated exhibited significant improvements in anxiety levels and overall quality of life, with these positive effects lasting up to six months after treatment. (1)
Today, researchers are not questioning if art therapy works but rather how it works. Universities across the globe are delving into the transformative power of art therapy for individuals who've experienced trauma. Art therapy is gaining momentum, and its effectiveness is now backed by expert endorsement.
Therapists are exploring various techniques, including blind drawing, hand/finger painting, color mixing, and nature painting (creating art with natural elements like leaves and flowers). These methods offer a unique path to healing and self-discovery.
In conclusion, if anxiety or depression has cast a shadow over your life, consider picking up a brush, a pen, or any tool that speaks to your creative spirit. The act of creation can be your guiding light toward inner peace, and it's a journey well worth embarking on. So, why not give it a try and let art be your trusted ally in the battle against anxiety?
1
A Beebe, EW Gelfand, B Bender, A randomized trial to test the effectiveness of art therapy for children with asthma. J Allergy Clin Immunol 126, 263–266, 266.e1 (2010).
