Benefits of Art Therapy for Mental and Physical Health

Published on: February 28, 2024

Art therapy is a niche within the mental health care industry focused on encouraging individuals to rely on art to improve their outlook and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. According to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy can serve as a supplement to traditional mental health care treatment and work to boost cognitive function, emotional resilience and self-confidence. It can also help reduce stress and aid conflict resolution, making it a powerful tool for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Amid a widespread mental health crisis, the need for art therapy for mental health is obvious. Mental health care professionals who are passionate about art therapy and holistic wellness services may be interested in exploring the new Expressive Arts Therapy certificate program available at Husson University. This certificate program allows skilled professionals to use a variety of tools to help treat their patients. The art therapy courses teach how various forms of art, dance, drama, music, and writing can be used to benefit their patients.

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The Importance of Art Therapy for Mental Health

Art therapy as a practice is incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways to support mental health. Depending on the needs of the individual and their experiences with therapy, a mental health care provider may use different techniques to help their client.

According to Very Well Mind, the purpose of art therapy is to help develop a greater sense of self-awareness through creative expression and, in turn, learn additional coping mechanisms that can help them lower stress levels or reduce feelings of depression or anxiety.

Some common art therapy techniques include coloring, drawing, music, photography, sculpture and writing. Not only do individuals benefit from the creative process of making art, but they may also gain further insight through reflection that can help them move forward in their lives.

The Connection Between Art and the Brain

Humans have long been drawn to art; they are moved to create it, and they are attracted to pieces that have been crafted by other artists. The truth of the matter is that this desire to be creative and appreciate art is rooted in science. There is a potent, biological connection between art and the brain, which is one of the reasons why art therapy can be so beneficial and effective.

According to the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine, studies have shown that simply observing art can boost serotonin and increase blood flow to the brain. This natural connection between art and the brain confirms the numerous benefits of art therapy.

Research Supporting Art and Mental Health

During the growing mental health crisis, more researchers are beginning to look into the root causes of these struggles and the most effective treatments to help people suffering from mental health disorders and severe mental illnesses. A recent study published in Cureus reviewed the most recent art therapy treatments and determined that this practice—when used as a supplement to traditional treatments such as counseling or medication—can be a valuable component of a mental health care treatment plan.

Benefits of Art Therapy

Art therapy for mental health is considered an incredibly beneficial treatment option, especially when used in combination with other mental health care services. Art therapy has the power to:

Reduce Stress and Anxiety

The process of creating art can help naturally reduce stress levels and minimize anxiety, largely because it requires the individual to remain present and focused on the task at hand. Additionally, the creative arts allow for plenty of flexibility and an opportunity for people to express themselves in ways they may not be able to in other parts of their lives.

According to Everyday Health, some studies have shown that individuals who take at least 45 minutes every day to create art are more likely to have reduced cortisol levels compared to those who do not reserve time for the creative arts.

Stimulate Cognitive Abilities

Research has revealed a direct correlation between art and brain function, which means art therapy may also help improve cognitive abilities. When an individual is engaged in the process of creating art, they are more likely to enter a deep flow state in which they are entirely present and focused on their work. During this time, they are allowing their brain to heal and restore itself. Most people who can enter this deep flow state report feeling almost euphoric—there is a sense of pleasure associated with the process of creating art that is entirely and uniquely theirs.

Help With Pain

Art therapy may be able to help ease pain because it allows individuals to explore their feelings and experiences creatively. Those experiencing chronic or traumatic pain may be able to use art as a way to manage the impact of that pain, and they can then reflect on their creations to better understand what they are going through. By focusing on their art, they may no longer be consumed or distracted by the pain they are experiencing.

Improve Self-Esteem and Self-Awareness

One of the most compelling benefits of art therapy is its ability to elevate self-esteem and self-awareness. Using a variety of mediums and techniques to create art, individuals are able to channel their emotions into their works. There is a natural sense of pride that develops as the person can overcome the challenges in art and produce a final piece, and they can also deepen their understanding of their feelings as they reflect upon the art.

Encourage Emotional Expression

Art provides a safe and creative space for emotional expression. One of the most difficult aspects of managing emotions is learning how to release them, especially when a person finds it challenging to talk about their experiences and put words to their feelings. Through art therapy, people can find distinct and innovative ways to express themselves and release those emotions. For many, art therapy techniques become a coping mechanism they rely on for years to come.

How Does Art Therapy Work?

Individuals who opt for art therapy treatment work in cooperation with a practicing art therapist who understands the most effective techniques and mediums to use. Art therapy is typically used as a supplement and can be combined with other mental health care treatment options.

According to Psychology.org, art therapy involves:

Establishing a defined goal for the art therapy program.
Allowing the client to choose a medium that appeals to them.
Providing the client with guidance about the process of creating art and how it can be constructed in a therapeutic way.
Encouraging the client to reflect on the artwork they have created.
Discussing the finished product with the client to better understand its relevance to their feelings and experiences.

Who Can Benefit From Art Therapy?

As a holistic treatment option, there are many types of clients who can benefit from art therapy. According to the Sage Neuroscience Clinic, some groups that commonly benefit from art therapy include:

Children – Young children who have experienced traumatic events benefit from art therapy as an outlet for their emotions, particularly when they may not have the words to express them. Art therapy for children also allows the provider to develop a better understanding of their client and their needs.
Seniors – Elderly people are at a higher risk of cognitive decline, and art therapy can help them improve and restore cognitive function.

How to Incorporate Art Therapy in Daily Life

Art therapy techniques can often be incorporated into daily life, too. Many people who participate in art therapy find that they continue drawing, painting, sculpting and creating well after their therapy programs are complete. When art therapy techniques become part of the daily routine, they can help ward off ongoing feelings of anxiety, depression and stress.

Explore the Connection Between Art and Mental Health at Husson University

Combining the freedom of the creative arts with proven mindfulness techniques and healing strategies, the Expressive Arts Therapy certificate program at Husson University could equip you with the skills needed to pursue this niche career path. This new program adds to our growing collection of online degree and certificate programs that are designed to empower you and fuel your career.

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