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It’s not a myth; art is good for you. And not just the kind of art that you hang on your wall, either. When you think about art, you may often associate it with painting and sculpture. But what most people don’t realize is that there are many other types of art, including dance, theater, music therapy, and even therapeutic writing. Creativity has always been a way for people to express themselves – by making something new or translating their feelings into an object. Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as a means of communication and expression. Many people are surprised to learn that art therapy is an actual treatment for different mental and emotional conditions.
1. Boosts Self-Esteem
One of the most common reasons people seek out therapy is to help them deal with an issue in their self-esteem. Sometimes, it’s a result of something they’ve experienced or are going through. Other times, it might result from years of feeling inferior. Regardless, these feelings can hurt an individual – and can often lead to depression or anxiety disorders.
Art therapy is very effective in helping people get over issues that have to do with self-esteem. It helps people explore their feelings and emotions, allowing them to confront and express things they might not be able to otherwise.
2. Encourages Creative Thinking
Creativity is a very important aspect of living and can make you happier. Studies have shown that painting or taking a creative writing class can increase a person’s likelihood of success at school, better grades, and even increase their chances of getting good jobs.
Art therapy often involves using creativity to boost self-esteem. For some people, this art therapy may be all they need to help them work through their issues and live life to the fullest. For instance, children with autism have been known to progress with art therapy. Art therapy for autism has been shown to improve communication, decrease aggression, teach coping skills, and more.
3. Address Past Traumas
Sometimes, you can find yourself oppressed by certain things in your past. This can make it difficult to live a full life – experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, and even flashbacks. Art therapy has been known to help people who have suffered trauma and are stuck in their pasts. It’s very important for people to feel safe enough to express their feelings and emotions without being ridiculed or blamed for what happened in the past. It can help them find closure, which is very important in helping someone heal from trauma.
4. Reduces Stress
Art therapy has been known to have a relaxing effect on those who partake in it. Creating art allows people to let go of their tensions and stress for a short period. This is because creative activities reduce stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. They can also boost your mood – which results from feeling relaxed, happy, and energized. Art therapy can help with various stress symptoms, such as insomnia, headaches, digestive problems, etc.
5. Alleviates Chronic Disease Symptoms
Art therapy has been known to help with a wide variety of different issues. One of the most common symptoms of chronic disease is stress and anxiety. Many people with hypertension or diabetes – as well as those who are obese – may suffer from stress and anxiety related to their medical condition. Art therapy can help people talk about their condition and feel less stressed. Art therapy can also help with conditions that cause chronic pain, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.
6. Offers Social Interaction
Art therapy can be used for socially isolated people without prospects for meaningful relationships. It can teach them how to interact with others by helping them express themselves through their art or dance. Art therapy can also be good for children who have no outlet to express themselves. This therapy allows them to learn how to communicate their feelings and process and understand emotions.
Conclusion
Art therapy is a very effective and powerful therapy that can benefit many people. Whether you’re emotionally or mentally damaged, need to process past trauma, or want to relax and distress, art therapy can help you. Art therapy helps you express yourself and your feelings in a creative manner. It also helps you live a fuller life by helping you confront pain from the past, feel better about yourself, build social relationships, and more.
Author: Tracie johnson
Tracie Johnson is a New Jersey native and an alum of Penn State University. She is passionate about writing, reading, and living a healthy lifestyle. She feels happiest when around a campfire surrounded by friends, family, and her Dachshund named Rufus.
