Art as Therapy
Let’s get this right out of the way – you do you need to be an artist to benefit from using art materials to help yourself feel better! Nor do you have to talk and share your deep feelings to participate in art therapy. Rather, art allows you to distract yourself in a positive way.
The Fancy Definition of Art Therapy
If we wanted to be fancy about it, art therapy uses integrative methods to engage the mind, body, and spirit in ways that are separate from verbal articulation alone. Kinesthetic, sensory, perceptual, and symbolic opportunities invite alternative modes of receptive and expressive communication, which can circumvent the limitations of language. Visual and symbolic expression gives voice to experience, and empowers individual, transformation. Say WHAT?
The Not-Fancy Definition
Art is a nonverbal expressive language. Sometimes, when we don’t have words to express ourselves we can turn to art to tell our stories. Using color, textures and different mediums like paint, clay, paper, etc, while using the five senses, art engages different parts of the brain to relax. It can also release stress, increase self-esteem, creatively problem-solve, and provide a safe way to communicate meaningfully through imagery. Art therapy is a body-centered approach that is also great for anxiety & depression, grief, trauma, and chronic pain/ illnesses. An art therapist can help create coping skills, all while you are enjoying yourself.
Most important? Having Fun and Relaxing
The goal isn’t to produce a master piece, in fact, the final piece of art work isn’t the most important part! What is important, is expressing yourself through art and relaxing. Incredibly, art therapy can help you process emotions and feelings that you are struggling with, so you can begin healing. Don’t be surprised if the effects of art therapy lead to a general sense of relief and overall better mental health.
What if you do not have access to an art therapist?
If your treating hospital does not have an Art Therapy program, that is ok! You can still use creative expression to foster healing and mental well-being. You don’t necessarily have to see an art therapist in order to experience the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression. There are many simple activities you can try such as art journaling, sketching, making collages, sculpting with clay, painting to music, etc. It doesn’t matter what media you choose. The only thing that matters is that you feel comfortable using it. One of the reasons art is so valuable as a coping tool is when you are creating, imagining, and having fun your brain can take a break. Creating art can be used to relieve stress and relax your mind and body, so give it a try!